Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia declared on Thursday that his administration has called for full military intervention to address insecurity in Ukum Local Government Area. According to a report by Punch, the governor made this announcement during a broadcast following violent protests in Ukum LG, sparked by recent killings in Ayati village.
Governor Alia had imposed a curfew in the affected area due to widespread destruction of both public and private property during the protests. State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed that 18 suspects linked to the violence had been arrested, with the Commissioner of Police personally overseeing operations in Ukum LG.
In his address to the state, Governor Alia emphasized his government's commitment to collaborating with security agencies to bring perpetrators to justice. He announced plans to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the underlying causes of the unrest.
Expressing sympathy for injured security personnel, Governor Alia acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers and police officers in maintaining peace. He underscored his administration's resolve to ensure safety and security across Benue State, emphasizing proactive measures to prevent future incidents.
Addressing the perpetrators directly, Governor Alia warned that his administration's patience had worn thin, retracting previous gestures of reconciliation. He urged residents not to allow the actions of a few to destabilize the state, affirming his determination to restore peace and stability.
Governor Alia stated, “Let me for the last time extend our hands of fellowship to all our youths who have chosen to reside in the forests and continually launch attacks on innocent citizens that my government has run out of patience and shall no longer guarantee the olive leaf branch extended to them.”
Governor Alia pledged additional measures to combat criminal activities, reaffirming his commitment to decisively ending such violence.