Hyacinth Alia, the Governor of Benue State, has firmly stated that self-defense is not the solution to the security crisis plaguing the region. In an appearance on AIT’s “Kakaaki” program on Tuesday, Alia addressed the frequent killings in Benue communities, citing that while self-defense might seem like a logical response, it would ultimately expose residents to greater risks.
“I think that would make some very good common sense,” Alia commented. “But where you have people who just decide to wake up because of sentiments and emotions attached to what is happening, I think it renders us more vulnerable. Therefore, I wouldn’t advocate for self-defense.”
Instead, the governor emphasized the need for community policing—an approach driven by locals who possess a deep understanding of the terrain and dynamics of the state. “I would encourage us all to keep advocating for community policing because it’s the only way forward,” Alia asserted. “It’s only the people from within the state and local government who can truly understand the nuances of what is happening.”
These comments come amidst rising calls from residents in affected communities to take their safety into their own hands. Alia disclosed that bandits and terrorists in the area are employing guerrilla tactics that complicate efforts to track and apprehend them. “We’re dealing with individuals who have adopted a mystifying form of guerrilla warfare. They strike quickly and retreat, making them difficult to identify,” he explained.
In light of the ongoing violence, the Benue State government has declared a public holiday on Wednesday, June 18, to honor the upcoming visit of President Bola Tinubu. The president is set to visit the state following the recent tragic killings in the Yelewata and Daudu communities of Guma Local Government Area, where over 100 residents were murdered by suspected criminal herders.
The brutal attacks have sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria, with many citizens criticizing the president for not responding more promptly to the crisis in affected areas. However, Tinubu postponed a previously scheduled trip to Kaduna to visit Benue, intending to express condolences to the state government and the families of victims.
Deborah Aber, secretary to the Benue State government, announced the public holiday, which exempts only security personnel, health workers, and bankers. Residents are encouraged to turn out in large numbers to welcome the president and his entourage during this significant visit.
“The Benue State Government has declared Wednesday, June 18, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, who is scheduled for a one-day visit to the State to commiserate with the government and the people over the ongoing security crises,” Aber stated.