Benue PDP slams Alia over anti-grazing law lapses, faults IDPs neglect

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has strongly criticized Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration for what it describes as the poor enforcement of the state’s Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, as well as the continued neglect of thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday following an expanded caucus meeting of PDP leaders from Benue North-West Senatorial District (Zone B), the party accused the governor of allowing the law enacted to address the persistent farmer-herder clashes to become dormant under his watch.

The PDP alleged that the resurgence of violent attacks, particularly the Yelewata massacre and other recent killings in Guma and other local government areas, was a direct result of the government’s failure to enforce the anti-open grazing law effectively.

“The bloodshed in Benue continues because the current administration has failed to uphold the anti-grazing law. Our people are being slaughtered, yet the government appears either complicit or incompetent,” the statement read.

The opposition party also expressed dismay over the state government’s handling of the IDP crisis, accusing Governor Alia of abandoning displaced persons who continue to languish in overcrowded and under-resourced camps.

“It is unacceptable that over a year into his administration, Governor Alia has failed to articulate or implement a comprehensive plan for the resettlement and rehabilitation of IDPs. These citizens have lost their homes, livelihoods, and dignity, yet they remain neglected,” the PDP added.

The party further challenged the governor to stop what it described as “propaganda governance” and focus on tangible security interventions, proper coordination with security agencies, and the full implementation of laws aimed at protecting Benue citizens.