By Paul Tumba
Residents of border communities between Benue and Nasarawa States have expressed frustration and loss of confidence in Governor Hyacinth Alia over what they describe as persistent failure to address worsening security challenges in Benue State.
A leader of the affected communities in Guma Local Government Area, Hon. Godwin Jila, who addressed a gathering in Makurdi recently, lamented that lives and livelihoods are lost daily amid repeated attacks and displacements with little or no serious action by the state government.
According to him, the pain of the people is compounded by what they perceive as misplaced priority by the governor.
He stressed, “We’re people living on the border, and that means we’re always the first to be attacked.
“When anything happens, it starts with us.
“Today, we no longer even have control over our families because of fear.
“Our children, our wives, our farms—everything is under threat.
“That’s the reality of living on the border in Benue State.”
Hon Jila appealed to Prof. Sebastine Hon SAN, to take up the responsibility of restoring security.
“We’re asking Prof. Hon to come to our rescue.
“When you become governor in 2027, please look into this matter decisively.
“Security must be the priority,” the elder said, speaking amidst cheers from community members.
Similarly, a former Head of Service, Benue State Government, Elder Mike Iordye urged the Constitutional Lawyer to enter the 2027 governorship race, saying it is the turn of Zone B to clinch the top seat.
Iordye who spoke on behalf of Nongov people described Prof Hon as a knowledgeable, dependable and trustworthy man.
Present at the event were leaders from Lobi and Gwer areas of Benue State including APC stalwart Chief Akange Audu, Prof Terfa Anjov, Prof Benjamin Dagba, Mrs Mnena Terngu Uba, and Mr Tavershima Abunde.
