Armed Herders Who Enter Benue Without Cattle Responsible For Fresh Attacks, Says Benue Governor.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has attributed the recent surge in deadly attacks to armed herders entering the state without cattle, describing them as orchestrators of violence rather than traditional pastoralists. Speaking to news men in Markudi , Alia alleged that some attacks are politically motivated, with unnamed Abuja-based politicians sponsoring the perpetrators to destabilise his administration.
The governor’s claims have sparked controversy, particularly his assertion of a report implicating high-profile individuals. His spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, clarified that the focus was on the Sankera axis (Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala), where 83 deaths were recorded between 17 and 21 April. And most recently the deadly massacre in Yelwata where over 200 lives were reported to be lost.
The SGF’s office, responding to Alia’s remarks, denied allegations that Senator George Akume had been silent, highlighting his efforts to raise security concerns at the Federal Executive Council. The dispute has raised questions about unity among Benue’s political leaders.
Security forces have intensified operations in response, with Benue Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Enemari confirming the arrest of 42 bandits and 10 herders, alongside the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and 21 locally made firearms. Alia has called for sustained federal support, including the deployment of additional troops and surveillance equipment, to tackle the crisis. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to enforcing the state’s anti-open grazing law, which he believes is central to reducing conflicts.
The situation underscores the complex interplay of security, politics, and ethnicity in Benue’s conflict. As President Tinubu’s visit approaches, Alia’s allegations will likely shape discussions, with stakeholders urging a focus on actionable solutions over political blame games. The governor has promised to work with federal authorities to restore peace, but the path forward remains fraught with challenges.
