By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Friday gifted N380 million to families of 76 security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty while combating bandits and violent criminals across the state within the past year.
The fallen heroes included operatives of the military, police, civil defence, Operation Zenda, and the state-owned Community Volunteer Guards.
At the brief ceremony in Government House, Makurdi, Governor Alia described their deaths as “the supreme sacrifice,” pledging continued support for their widows and children.
“These 76 security personnel died defending our state so that our wives and children can live in peace. Each family will receive N5 million, and we will also support the wounded in hospitals immediately. I will ensure that the children of the deceased remain in school, and widows will be assisted to start small businesses,” he said.
The governor further pledged to allocate free plots of land to serving security operatives in difficult terrains, while cautioning citizens against harassing security personnel on social media.
He also warned security chiefs in the state and government officials not to demand any deductions from the bereaved families.
Director-General of Benue Homeland Security, Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuam (retd.), said the gesture was well deserved, noting that the personnel died in active service within Benue’s borders.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Enemari, thanked the governor for the support, assuring that security agencies would intensify efforts to root out bandits and criminals.
