Benue attacks: Gov Alia pledges security, VC alleges Abande snub

By Henry Ojelu & Peter Duru

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged urgent measures to secure communities in Kwande Local Government Area following recent deadly attacks by bandits. As part of his response, the governor announced plans to construct the Nyihemba–Tomataan–Mkem–Anwase–Abande road, aimed at improving security and restoring normalcy across the troubled axis.

The governor made the commitment during a visit to the affected areas, speaking at Anwase Market Square after inspecting Anwase, communities. “This road will enable our security work effectively and respond swiftly to any threat. Work will commence immediately,” he said, adding that the project would include grading, culverts, and bridges, to be completed before the rainy season.

Beyond road construction, Alia pledged to revive electricity in Anwase, reactivate solar streetlights, provide potable water, and strengthen border patrol with ten additional motorcycles.

Despite the governor’s efforts, the Vice-Chancellor of Mkar University, Gboko, Professor Zacharys Anger Gundu, criticised Alia for allegedly failing to visit Abande, the site of the deadly attack. “If the governor failed to reach Abande, where the bereaved were waiting, he lost an opportunity to reassure them that their lives matter,” Gundu said.
He warned that neglecting Abande, despite its remoteness, could send a dangerous signal to residents of vulnerable areas.

Gundu also raised concerns over the connection between insecurity and illicit mining in the Turan axis, accusing some local elites of complicity in exploiting what he called “illicit blood minerals.” He further criticised traditional rulers and officials who allegedly failed to insist that the governor visit Abande, stressing that protecting citizens is a fundamental responsibility of both government and traditional institutions.

Local officials have welcomed Alia’s security measures. Chairman of Kwande LGA, Mr. Vitalis Neji, noted that many displaced residents are taking refuge at Anwase Market Square, while the council has procured speed boats to patrol waterways exploited by bandits. The Benue State Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ekon Esoquo, assured that security agencies would intensify surveillance. The Ter Kwande, HRH Chief Timothy Ahile, called for proper border demarcation with neighbouring Taraba State and appealed for amenities in locations hosting displaced persons.

With the combination of road infrastructure, improved patrols, and federal support, the governor said his administration is determined to restore lasting peace , even as critics like Professor Gundu urge closer attention to Abande and other remote communities.

The post Benue attacks: Gov Alia pledges security, VC alleges Abande snub appeared first on Vanguard News.