NAISP Demands State of Emergency in Benue, Calls for Resignation of Governor Alia and Deputy

A prominent security and peace advocacy group, the NAISP, has issued a strong call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to declare a state of emergency in Benue State amid escalating insecurity. The group also demanded the immediate resignation of Governor Hyacinth Alia and his deputy, Dr. Sam Ode.

In a statement that has ignited fresh debates on governance and security in the state, the group expressed deep concern over the persistent violence, killings, and displacement affecting communities across Benue. They argued that current leadership has failed to stem the tide of insecurity, necessitating drastic federal intervention.

“We therefore demand the immediate resignation of Governor Hyacinth Alia and his deputy, Dr Sam Ode,” a representative of the group declared during a media briefing covered by Idoma Television.

The demand comes against the backdrop of recurring attacks, particularly in rural areas, which have led to significant loss of lives, destruction of property, and humanitarian challenges. Benue has long grappled with farmer-herder clashes, banditry, and other forms of violence that continue to hinder development and peaceful coexistence.

NAISP’s appeal to President Tinubu highlights the expectation that the federal government should step in decisively where state efforts appear insufficient. Declaring a state of emergency would allow for enhanced security operations, possible deployment of additional troops, and temporary restructuring of governance to restore order.

This latest development adds to the existing political tensions in Benue, where relations between key stakeholders, including the Governor and influential figures like SGF Senator George Akume, have been under scrutiny. Calls for unity and collaborative peace efforts have previously been made at the highest levels, yet insecurity remains a pressing issue.

As reactions continue to pour in on social media platforms like the Idoma Television Facebook page, many residents are watching closely to see how the federal government and state authorities will respond to these urgent demands. The situation underscores the complex challenges of addressing deep-rooted security problems in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region while balancing political accountability.

The coming days may prove critical as stakeholders weigh the implications of emergency measures against ongoing governance and peace initiatives in Benue State.