The Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), a key military operation aimed at tackling insecurity in Benue and neighbouring states, has publicly expressed concerns about inconsistent support from the Benue State Government under Governor Hyacinth Alia.
In a viral video circulating on social media, the commander stated that his forces are not always sure of receiving the necessary operational backing from the Benue State Government when addressing insecurity in the state. He contrasted this with the situation in Taraba and Nasarawa states, where support is reportedly more reliable and consistent.
The statement has sparked fresh debate about the state’s approach to tackling the persistent security challenges that continue to plague Benue, including farmer-herder clashes, banditry, and communal violence that have led to loss of lives and displacement of many residents.
A Facebook post by Tivta Samuel Aondohemba shared the video and highlighted the commander’s remarks, urging people to watch and share it to draw attention to the situation on the ground. The post described it as a fresh alarm over the ongoing fight against insecurity in the state.
Benue has been grappling with complex security issues for years, and Operation Whirl Stroke was deployed to help restore peace in the region. While the state government has previously highlighted efforts such as community dialogues, support for security agencies, and initiatives to address root causes of conflict, the commander’s comments suggest gaps in coordination and logistical support during operations.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Benue State Government to the commander’s remarks. The development comes amid continued calls for stronger collaboration between federal security forces and state authorities to effectively combat insecurity and protect lives and property in the state.
The viral nature of the video has intensified public discourse, with many residents expressing concerns over the pace and effectiveness of security measures, while others call for unity and sustained support for operations aimed at restoring lasting peace in Benue.
