Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has warned individuals or groups planning to visit the state without prior notice, stating that such visits are at the risk of the visitors, as their safety can no longer be guaranteed.
The governor’s position was made public on Monday through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, titled “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State.”
In the statement, Governor Alia, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasized the need for proper communication and clearance before any visit to sensitive locations within the state, especially camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
“The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today,” the statement read. “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.”
“For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed,” he warned.
Alia further directed that all individuals or organizations intending to engage with IDPs in the state must first obtain clearance from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
“Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA.
“We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”
The governor’s remarks come amid rising security concerns across several parts of Benue. He had earlier announced plans to convene a state-wide security summit aimed at addressing the escalating violence in some local government areas.