Benue State Governor Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia has called for stronger community participation in the fight against insecurity, admonishing traditional rulers and residents against activities capable of exposing communities to criminality and violence.
He made the call yesterday during a town hall meeting in Adikpo, Kwande Local Government Area of the state.
Gov. Alia urged traditional rulers to take a more active role in guiding young people and confronting youth vices that could undermine peace, social cohesion and the cultural values of their communities.
He described traditional institutions as critical partners in the state’s security architecture, noting that royal fathers are strategically positioned to identify emerging threats, provide useful intelligence and help prevent criminal activities before they escalate.
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Gov. Alia condemned the sale of ancestral lands for illegal mining in Kwande, particularly for gold and other solid minerals, warning that unregulated mining was damaging the environment and creating conditions that could fuel criminality and worsen insecurity in the area.
He said illegal mining had contributed to security challenges in parts of Kwande, stressing that those involved in the practice were acting against the interests of the state.
The governor urged community leaders and residents to protect their ancestral lands and reject activities capable of compromising their collective security.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the 5th Division of the Nigerian Army, saying the development would strengthen military operations and improve security coverage across Benue.
Gov. Alia disclosed that Army units would be established in Adikpo and Anwase to enhance security presence and improve response to emerging threats. He stressed, however, that military deployment must be complemented by cooperation from residents, traditional institutions and other community stakeholders.
He said his administration would continue to implement programmes and projects aimed at reducing hardship and improving the wellbeing of residents, particularly by creating opportunities for young people.
Gov. Alia disclosed that he would reach out to individuals who contested against him during the 2023 governorship election for a roundtable dialogue aimed at promoting peace, unity and peaceful coexistence in Benue.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, leaders and stakeholders from the Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency endorsed Governor Alia and President Tinubu for a second term during the town hall meeting.
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