By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has called for collective action and responsible leadership to end the cycle of killings in the state, urging all citizens, including traditional and religious leaders, to prioritise peace over personal interests.
Speaking during Democracy Day solidarity match in Makurdi, the governor reflected on the persistent insecurity plaguing Benue while lamenting the loss of innocent lives.
He said, “It’s not yet Uhuru for us. We are still burying our dead -people who were killed unprovoked.”
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace beyond the six frontline local government areas hardest hit by violent attacks just as he expressed confidence in the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the contributions of traditional institutions.
“Our traditional rulers and many religious leaders are working with us to restore calm,” Alia noted.
However, he also warned against those he described as “acclaimed leaders” who stoke division through inflammatory speech.
“There are some who use their platforms not to heal, but to harm. I call them religious bandits. Their rhetoric only fuels the pain we are working hard to end. If you don’t have the facts, don’t speak. Use your influence to build, not to break,” the governor said.
Alia therefore urged all Benue residents, especially those in positions of influence, to rise above politics and prejudice.
“Our people are suffering. Their sorrow is our sorrow. We who have taken an oath to protect them must never forget that what unites us is greater than what divides us. Let today be a sovereign moment, a reminder that the path to peace requires truth, courage, and unity,” the governor concluded.
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