Herdsmen attacks: We need naval base in Benue – Gov Alia

enue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has advocated for the establishment of a naval base in the state to bolster security efforts. He emphasized that such a base would facilitate closer cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies operating in Benue.

During his visit to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, in Abuja, Alia specifically requested “a Nigerian Navy Type A Operation Base in Makurdi.”

The governor highlighted the pressing security challenges facing the state, noting that numerous communities are under siege and residents live in fear due to threats posed by criminal elements, particularly armed herders and bandits.

Alia stressed that these criminals exploit the lack of security along Benue waterways to infiltrate and commit heinous crimes against defenseless civilians.

He stated, “The situation demands urgent action, and it is in this spirit of urgency that I am here to appeal to the Nigerian Navy to consider establishing a Type ‘A’ Operational Base in Makurdi, Benue State, along the River Benue.”

Alia underscored the significance of the River Benue as one of Nigeria’s major inland waterways, playing a crucial role in the nation’s Blue Economy potential and overall development.

Enhanced security along the River Benue and its adjacent coastal communities and waterways, according to Alia, is vital for realizing developmental aspirations. He lamented the volatility of the security situation in these areas due to the absence of operational Naval presence.

The governor cited instances of bandit attacks in which hundreds of innocent civilians were reportedly killed, attributing these incidents to the lack of naval presence along the waterways.