The Zone "A" Peoples' Assembly (ZAPA) has called on Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to declare a state of emergency due to the recent surge in deadly attacks and mass displacement across several communities. ZAPA President, Mr. Fanen Mondo, expressed concern over the wave of brutal, coordinated assaults by armed herders, allegedly including foreign mercenaries, in areas such as Chito, Tor Donga, Turan, Aondoana, Yelwata, Apa, and Agatu.
Key Demands
- *Declare State of Emergency*: ZAPA urges Governor Alia to declare a state of emergency to address the worsening security situation.
- *Lead Security Response*: The assembly demands that the governor personally lead the security response and engage with the Federal Government to address the crisis.
- *Federal Intervention*: ZAPA calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by deploying military forces and providing emergency humanitarian aid to affected communities.
Governor's Response
In contrast, Governor Alia had previously stated that what the state needs is emergency assistance from the Federal Government, rather than a declaration of a state of emergency. He emphasized that his administration has the capability to end the killings but requires more support to drive out armed herders invading Benue communities ¹.
Reactions
The security situation in Benue State remains volatile, with many residents displaced and farmlands abandoned due to repeated invasions by suspected herders. The crisis has sparked widespread outrage, with demands for improved security measures to prevent further violence ².
