From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
A group operating under the auspices of Zone “A” Peoples’ Assembly (ZAPA), has urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to declare a state of emergency on security to address the incessant invasions, attacks and killings of innocent citizens in Benue state.
President of the group, Mr Fanen Mondo who made the call while briefing newsmen in Makurdi, said the spate of resurgence of killings, destruction, and displacement across the communities by suspected herdsmen and foreign mercenaries weighs heavily on the soul of Benue State.
ZAPA urged Alia to “Declare a state of emergency on security in Benue State and personally lead the response.”
The group also called on the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to deploy immediate and decisive military action to end the killings, provide emergency humanitarian support to affected communities and to also stablish a long-term security framework, including forest surveillance and border control.
The group noted that in the past few months, Benue state have witnessed a return of brutal, coordinated attacks on the people in communities such as Chito in Ukum, Tor Donga in Katsina-Ala, Turan in Kwande, Aôndoana in Gwer West, Yelwata in Guma, Apa, and Agatu.
“What links all these areas is not just blood and destruction it is silence. Silence from those in positions of power who should act. Silence from those who should speak.”
Mondo regretted that ZAPA foresaw the resurgence, having observed disturbing trends in the political and security landscape of the state. “We warned that the evolving situation was not just about herders it was also about power plays aimed at destabilizing the administration of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Governor of Benue State. Regrettably, those warnings went unheeded.
The group which condemned the silence of other state leaders and politicization of the security challenges, said “This silence is not neutrality it is complicity. And the people of Benue see it for what it is.
“ZAPA and the good people of Zone A are disappointed that despite our early warnings, Governor Alia has failed to recognize the true political and security threats facing his administration and the state. His caution is understandable, but the times demand bold, decisive leadership.
“We urge him to rise to the occasion. Benue does not need a silent governor, we need a field commander, ready to defend our ancestral land.”
To President Tinubu, the group said “Benue people stood by you. They voted for you in large numbers because they believed in your promise of renewed hope. Today, Benue is bleeding. We call on you to turn your full attention to the ongoing invasion of Benue communities. This is not just about security it is about human dignity, survival, and national justice.”