Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has opposed calls for residents to take up arms in self-defence following a series of violent attacks that have left over 100 people dead across several communities.
Speaking during an interview on AIT News on Tuesday, Alia called for calm and urged citizens to avoid emotionally charged responses that could worsen the security situation.
He discouraged the idea of residents arming themselves, warning that it could increase their vulnerability.
“It may seem reasonable to arm oneself, but when decisions are driven by emotion, they can make us more vulnerable,” the governor said.
“That’s why I cannot support self-defence.”
Instead, Governor Alia advocated for stronger community policing as a sustainable solution to the growing insecurity in the state.
He stressed that local residents and authorities are best positioned to understand and respond to the threats facing their communities.
“I urge everyone to continue pushing for community policing,” he said. “Only people within the local government and state truly understand the dynamics of what’s happening.”
The governor’s comments come in the aftermath of coordinated attacks—allegedly carried out by armed herders—that ravaged Guma Local Government Area and nearby communities.
Local reports suggest the death toll may exceed 100, sparking national outrage and renewed calls for a state of emergency.
Alia acknowledged the frustration among residents and noted that external security forces often lack the local knowledge needed for timely and effective interventions.
His remarks follow growing pressure from civil society organizations and political leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who have demanded immediate government action and justice for the victims.