Gov Alia urges dialogue to address escalating violence in Benue

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has called for urgent reconciliation efforts in light of the ongoing violence that has claimed over 160 lives in recent weeks.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Alia discussed a recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, aimed at exploring a political solution to the crisis.

“The President convened the meeting as part of a political solution to end the gruesome killings in the state,” Alia explained, highlighting the gravity of the situation in a state that has been plagued by attacks from suspected herdsmen.

He urged all parties to engage in dialogue, stating, “I think the president is not wrong to have said that we should find a common ground for reconciliation.”

Alia acknowledged the longstanding conflict rooted in land disputes between local farmers and nomadic cattle rearers. “We have a complex situation that is primarily being sponsored from somewhere, being remote-controlled from somewhere,” he noted, emphasizing the need to address both local and external influences fueling the violence.

The governor rebuffed claims that the Federal Government has failed to support Benue residents, asserting, “If he (President Tinubu) didn’t have an understanding of what is going on, he won’t be giving us full support.” He detailed the progress made in combating the insecurity, stating that the number of local governments under siege has decreased from 17 to three with the help of federal assistance.

Alia’s call for reconciliation comes amid concerns about his relationship with SGF Akume, a former state governor. However, he reassured the public that there were no significant differences between them, stating, “The SGF himself said there were no differences between us. If there were, going forward, there would be no anxiety at all.”

With a commitment to fostering peace, Governor Alia underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation as vital steps toward restoring safety and stability in Benue State.

Source: Channels TV