Benue Governor Alia Advocates for State Police Establishment

Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the Governor of Benue State, has renewed his call for the establishment of a state police to address security challenges in the region. Speaking during a briefing at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, Alia argued that local security personnel possess a better understanding of their communities, which would facilitate effective intelligence gathering and crime prevention.

He criticized the current central control of the police system, advocating for state police as a means to empower states to manage their own security. Alia also highlighted the importance of local government autonomy, stating that Benue State fully implements policies that uphold local government independence.

He defended President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms aimed at increasing fiscal space for states, enabling them to invest in security, infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Alia's proposals aim to improve public service delivery and address the persistent attacks by armed groups in the state.