In response to the growing wave of violence and killings in Benue State, Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has emphasized that what the state truly needs is increased support from the Federal Government, not the imposition of a state of emergency. During an appearance on Arise Television’s “The Morning Show” on Wednesday, Governor Alia clarified that while the security crisis in Benue is serious, it is not beyond the control of his administration. However, he stressed that meaningful and sustained federal assistance is necessary to bring the situation under control.

Governor Alia expressed confidence in his government’s ability to handle the situation but highlighted that tackling the issue effectively requires more federal resources and intervention. He pointed out that the killings, largely perpetrated by armed herders who have infiltrated the state, are not only a local problem but also involve foreign elements—many of whom, he noted, do not even speak any Nigerian languages. This, he argued, underscores the urgent need for national-level intervention to support the state’s efforts in repelling these attackers and restoring peace.

He commended the limited support already received from the Federal Government, such as the deployment of armored tanks, which he said helped shift the security narrative in Benue in a more positive direction. Despite this progress, Governor Alia insisted that more needs to be done, particularly in resettling displaced citizens and reclaiming ancestral farmlands from the invaders.

The governor firmly rejected suggestions that a state of emergency should be declared in Benue, stating that the focus should be on providing immediate and practical aid rather than imposing extraordinary measures. He also shared evidence of his administration’s impact on the ground, noting a significant reduction in the number of local government areas affected by violence—from 17 down to six—demonstrating that with the right support, his government can restore lasting peace to the state.