The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has called upon the Nigerian Army to deploy infantry soldiers to address the recurring violence between farmers and suspected herders in the state. Governor Alia also urged for the establishment of a battalion at Ugbema and the creation of seven forward operating bases in Guma, Logo, Ukum, and Kwande Local Government Areas to enhance security and rapid response.
During a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Hyacinth Alia emphasized the need for heightened security measures, particularly in the state’s hinterland. He expressed his concerns about the ongoing violence, which has hindered farmers’ access to fertile land for agricultural activities.
Hyacinth Alia conveyed his appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s efforts in maintaining peace in the Benue Valley, highlighting the state’s agricultural nature as its primary occupation. However, he stressed that the most fertile areas of the Benue Valley within the state remain inaccessible to farmers due to threats from armed herders and bandits.
He explained, “Now it is such that two to five or more people are killed every week as a result of violence from these gangs and groups, which, in a few cases, are not widely reported. The 401 Special Force Brigade is doing its best, but their deployment is primarily focused on the main roads, while killings continue in the hinterland.
Alia’s request to the Chief of Army Staff included the establishment of forward operating bases in strategic locations such as Anyiin in Logo Local Government Area, Zaki-Biam in Ukum Local Government Area, Udei and Gbajimba in Guma Local Government Area, Naka in Gwer West Local Government Area, Pontar in Konshisha Local Government Area, and Adikpo in Kwande Local Government Area.
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He also suggested that in the immediate term, additional manpower and patrol vehicles should be provided to the 401 Special Force Brigade and Operation Whirl Stroke to improve their reach. He emphasized the state’s willingness to provide support, including shelters for the forward operating bases and logistics.
He highlighted that some local governments in Benue State share a border with Cameroon, and the discovery of solid minerals in these areas could exacerbate security challenges. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures, including the establishment of an infantry battalion, to address potential security threats arising from mineral discoveries.
In response, the Chief of Army Staff pledged to take measures to restore peace to the Benue Valley. He assured that more troops and combat enablers would be deployed to 104 forward operating bases, with the establishment of additional bases contingent on budgetary allocations.
The Chief of Army Staff also encouraged the governor to provide infrastructure to support troop movements and logistics for military operations.