“They kill to occupy” – Gov Alia cries out over Benue attacks

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has once again urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies, declaring that the state is under siege.

Speaking on Sunday, April 20, 2025, after Mass at the Chapel of Grace, Government House in Makurdi, Governor Alia emphasized that security is a shared responsibility, and that residents must actively support efforts to counter ongoing threats.

“If you hear something, say something,” he stressed. “It will enable security agents to respond swiftly and repel the invaders.”

The Governor lamented the growing attacks across the state, describing them as deliberate attempts by armed groups with clear objectives to displace communities and take over their lands a situation he called “extremely unacceptable.”

“We are under siege as a state. We are under attack. And those who are attacking us must have a face, must have an aim, and must have a drive. They come, they drag people out, they kill to occupy. This is extremely unacceptable.”

Governor Alia also issued a stern warning to politicians allegedly exploiting the security crisis for personal gain, urging them to desist.

“I invite you politicians to stay clear. Don’t be part of those attacking us. We have some machinery in place to dig deeper, to let us know who is a culprit, who is involved in the destruction of our state.”

He condemned all forms of criminality, asserting that Benue State would not tolerate acts of terror or lawlessness, regardless of the perpetrator’s background.

“A terrorist is a terrorist, irrespective of ethnicity or religion. Criminality is criminality period! Whoever commits it is a terrorist and should not be among the living.”

Despite the challenges, Governor Alia encouraged the people of Benue not to lose hope, pledging his continued commitment to securing peace across the state.

He linked the sacrifice of Christ to the current trials facing the state, calling on residents to pray for the victims of recent attacks, especially those who lost their lives during the Holy Week in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.