We Want Absolute Peace In Benue – Governor Alia Begs Military

• Benue State Governor urges military high command for absolute peace, requests Forward Operation Bases in strategic locations to address vulnerabilities
• Governor Alia emphasizes collaboration, offers financial support, and seeks enhanced military efforts to ensure sustained peace and security in Benue

Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, made a plea to the military high command on Tuesday, urging them to contribute to achieving absolute peace in the state, surpassing the current state of relative tranquility. The governor’s appeal came during a visit to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where he held a closed-door meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa.

Governor Alia, accompanied by state government officials, emphasized the vulnerability of Benue State, with four Local Government Areas sharing borders with Cameroon. He expressed the need for the military to establish Forward Operation Bases (FOB) in strategic locations, particularly in areas where criminals have found refuge and in regions abundant with newly discovered solid minerals.

In an interview with Defence Correspondents, Governor Alia stated, “We want not just relative peace; we want absolute peace. The peace in the form that will enable our IDPs to go back home to their ancestral farmland and for everyone to sleep with two eyes closed.”

Acknowledging the efforts of the Nigerian army, particularly Operation Whirl Stroke, in restoring relative peace to the state, the governor conveyed his gratitude. However, he emphasized the necessity for further measures to ensure complete security, allowing residents, especially farmers, to return to their lands without fear.

Governor Alia elaborated on the security challenges faced by Benue State, noting the recent discoveries of solid minerals, which increased the region’s vulnerability. He emphasized the importance of securing borders effectively, especially given the state’s proximity to Cameroon.

Addressing how the state could assist the military, the governor expressed willingness to provide financial support and other forms of assistance. He emphasized a collaborative effort, stating, “Economically, we are willing to go the whole hog with them.”

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa, assured that efforts were underway to close all internally displaced persons camps nationwide, allowing displaced Nigerians to return to their homes. The governor’s visit aimed at seeking enhanced military collaboration for sustained peace and security in Benue State.