‘Don’t come to Benue without my approval’ – Alia warns those traveling home for Easter

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has placed a ban on all unauthorised visits to the state, including trips to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, warning that such visits must receive official clearance beforehand.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, on Monday, the governor cautioned individuals and groups — especially high-profile personalities — against embarking on visits capable of drawing political gatherings without prior approval from the state government.

According to the statement, Governor Alia is currently engaged in a series of strategic meetings with stakeholders to address pressing security and humanitarian issues confronting the state, and will not entertain unapproved visits at this time.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Governor is not expecting any high-profile visitors or groups in Benue State presently,” the statement read. “He therefore strongly discourages any attempt by individuals or groups to enter the state for visits that may provoke political assemblies without the express permission of the government.”

The statement further stressed that anyone considering such visits should reconsider their plans, as the state government cannot guarantee their safety or security without formal notification and approval.

The governor also directed that any individuals or organisations intending to visit IDP camps in the state must first seek and obtain written clearance from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

The government urged security agencies and the public to take note of the directive and work towards maintaining peace and public order across the state.