Alia Urges Action Against Illegal Mining and Insecurity

On Monday, during a town hall meeting in Adikpo, Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia called on traditional rulers and residents to actively address insecurity and illegal mining activities threatening their communities. His Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, reported that Alia urged traditional leaders to enhance peace efforts and discourage youth involvement in criminal activities.

He warned against selling ancestral lands for illegal mining, particularly gold, which he stated damages the environment and exacerbates insecurity. Alia praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the establishment of the 5th Division of the Nigerian Army in Benue, which aims to bolster security operations.

He announced that Army units would be set up in Adikpo and Anwase to improve security response. Alia stressed that military efforts must be supported by community cooperation and revealed plans to engage with individuals who contested against him in the 2023 governorship election to foster peace and unity.