Gov Alia orders immediate flush-out of armed herders from Benue forests

Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has instructed security agencies to launch immediate, coordinated offensives to dismantle terrorist camps linked to armed herders operating in forested areas of Apa, Otukpo, Gwer-West, and other parts of the state.

The directive follows recent deadly assaults on communities including Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi, and Adija in Apa Local Government Area, as well as Upu village in Otukpo LGA, where several lives were lost.

Governor Alia said the order became necessary due to the resurgence of violent attacks on innocent residents, describing the situation as unacceptable and increasingly hydra-headed.

He explained that the attackers have been using remote forest locations as hideouts and operational bases, stressing that such enclaves must be cleared without delay.

The governor reiterated that safeguarding lives and property remains the top priority of his administration.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, disclosed that the governor has approved a sustained, intelligence-led operation aimed at neutralising, “all threats and restoring confidence among citizens, particularly in the affected local government areas.”

Governor Alia further assured residents that the state government is collaborating closely with federal security agencies and will continue efforts until lasting peace is restored.

He called on citizens to stay alert, support security operatives, and share useful information to strengthen ongoing operations.

While sympathising with families who lost loved ones in the attacks, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s determination to tackle criminal activities decisively and make the state safe for all residents.