Nigeria:Benue Governor Pledges Security Measures, Faces Criticism Over Abande Visit

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has announced urgent measures to secure communities in Kwande Local Government Area following recent deadly attacks by bandits. During a visit to the affected areas, the governor pledged to construct the Nyihemba–Tomataan–Mkem–Anwase–Abande road to improve security and restore normalcy. “This road will enable our security work effectively and respond swiftly to any threat. Work will commence immediately,” he said at Anwase Market Square.

The project will include grading, culverts, and bridges, with completion targeted before the rainy season. Alia also promised to revive electricity in Anwase, reactivate solar streetlights, provide potable water, and strengthen border patrol with ten additional motorcycles.

However, Mkar University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Zacharys Anger Gundu, criticized the governor for allegedly failing to visit Abande, the site of a 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, warning that neglecting remote areas could send a dangerous signal.

Gundu also linked insecurity to illicit mining in the Turan axis, accusing some local elites of complicity. He criticized traditional rulers and officials for not insisting on the governor’s visit to Abande, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to protect citizens.

Local officials welcomed Alia’s security measures. Kwande LGA Chairman, Vitalis Neji, noted many displaced residents are sheltering at Anwase Market Square, and the council has procured speedboats to patrol waterways. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ekon Esoquo, assured intensified surveillance, while Ter Kwande, HRH Chief Timothy Ahile, called for border demarcation with Taraba State and amenities for displaced persons.

The governor’s administration aims to restore lasting peace with infrastructure and security enhancements, though critics urge closer attention to remote communities like Abande.