Benue Governor Alia urges communities to combat illegal mining and insecurity, announces new army divisions
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has called on traditional rulers and residents to address insecurity and illegal mining activities in the state. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Adikpo, Kwande Local Government Area, Governor Alia emphasized the crucial role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and preventing criminal activities due to their proximity to communities. He specifically warned against the sale of ancestral lands for illegal mining of gold and other solid minerals, citing environmental damage and increased insecurity in Kwande. Governor Alia also commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the establishment of the 5th Division of the Nigerian Army in Benue, with units to be located in Adikpo and Anwase, to enhance security operations. He stressed that military deployment requires community cooperation. The governor further stated his administration's commitment to implementing programs to alleviate hardship, create opportunities for youth, and improve residents' well-being. He also plans to engage individuals who contested against him in the 2023 governorship election in a dialogue for peace and unity. Stakeholders from the Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency endorsed Governor Alia and President Tinubu for second terms, acknowledging the governor's appointments of indigenes, support for local government autonomy, and development projects.
