Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the governor of Benue State, has made serious accusations against certain politicians in Abuja, claiming they are supporting and funding armed banditry and violence in the Sankera region of the state.This area includes the local government areas of Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo.
The governor’s comments come in response to a viral video in which bandits allege that Alia broke a pre-election agreement made with them. In the video, which emerged shortly after the killing of 18 people in the Mbacher council ward of Katsina-Ala, the bandits, dressed in military uniforms, threaten to continue their attacks until the governor fulfills his promises.
Governor Alia addressed the issue in a press conference in Makurdi on Sunday, following a church service at the Government House Chapel. He clarified that during his election campaign, he had made a broad appeal to various groups, including those involved in banditry. He asked them to cease their activities, promising that his administration would work to improve their lives and end their current lifestyle of violence and instability.
Alia explained that despite his administration’s efforts to address the problem, the situation has been complicated by political interference. He noted that previous governments had made promises of amnesty to the bandits, which were not fulfilled. This sense of betrayal has contributed to the current violence, as the bandits now feel distrustful of government offers.
The governor went on to accuse politicians from Abuja of being behind the support and funding of these bandits. He promised that once the Judicial Panel of Inquiry finishes its investigation, the state government would publicly disclose the names of those supporting the bandits. Alia emphasized that the violence in the Sankera region is not due to external invaders but stems from local bandits attacking their communities.
Alia shared his frustration that despite offering opportunities for education and skills development to those willing to leave banditry behind, some of these individuals have faced further attacks and internal conflicts. He expressed disappointment that political figures from Abuja are allegedly backing these bandits, making it more difficult to restore peace in the region.
Regarding the bandits’ demand for amnesty, Alia acknowledged that while amnesty could be a potential solution, the bandits’ trust in such offers has been severely damaged. He explained that past amnesty attempts by previous administrations had failed and led to the death of their leader, deepening their distrust and reluctance to engage with the current government.
Alia urged the bandits to recognize that Benue State is fundamentally a peaceful place and that efforts are being made to return to that state of calm and stability. He reassured the public that the government would continue to work towards persuading the bandits to abandon their violent activities.
However, he emphasized that he would not allow a few troublemakers to disrupt the peace and security of the entire region.
Governor Alia’s accusations highlight a complex situation involving local violence, political interference, and broken promises of amnesty. He calls for continued efforts to address the problem while promising transparency about those allegedly supporting the bandits. His administration remains committed to restoring peace and stability in Benue State despite the ongoing challenges.
