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The Technical Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Hon. Chief Solomon Iorpev, has strongly cautioned politicians in the state against exaggerating the security situation for cheap political gains.
Chief Iorpev made the call during his appearance on the morning show Morning Brief on Channels Television, where he addressed misinformation being spread by some politicians and their allies regarding Wednesday’s armed attacks on innocent residents of Kwande Local Government Area by suspected armed herders. The attacks resulted in the loss of lives and injuries to several others.
The governor’s media chief emphasised that even the loss of one Benue life to violence remains a serious concern to Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia and cannot be taken lightly. He, however, wondered why some politicians bent on destabilising the state for political advantage continue to feed the public with fake narratives whenever security incidents occur, thereby creating unnecessary tension and undermining the efforts of the Alia administration.
Chief Iorpev noted that the Alia-led government inherited a long-standing insecurity challenge and has made significant progress in tackling it. He pointed out that Benue’s security situation is considerably better now compared to the previous administration, stressing that no part of the world, including the most developed nations like the United States and the United Kingdom, enjoys 100% security.
The Adviser also addressed the complexity of the current situation in Kwande, revealing that intelligence reports indicate some frustrated criminals and illegal miners, who were previously stopped from stealing mineral resources in the area, have mobilised criminal elements within communities to cause unrest. He urged traditional rulers in the affected areas to closely monitor their subjects and called on the people to remain vigilant and support the government in fighting insecurity rather than engaging in blame games.
Chief Iorpev consoled the affected communities, particularly the families of the victims, and appealed to Benue masses to shun politicians who derive joy from politicising their misfortunes. He encouraged continued prayers and support for Governor Alia, who has made the welfare and security of the people his top priority.
The statement was issued by Awarga Alfred Terver, Director of New Media, Office of the Technical Adviser.
