Alia argued that due to the unprecedented influx of the armed herdsmen, the security atmosphere in the state has become charged
By Kehinde Okeowo
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia in a bid to forestall the worsening security situation in his state, has decided to ban all political gatherings till further notice.
This development was revealed on Thursday via a statement made available to pressmen by the governor’s Chief of Staff, Paul Biam.
According to Governor Alia, his decision followed an intelligence on the volatility of the security atmosphere in the state.
He said due to the unprecedented influx of armed herdsmen to the state, the security atmosphere has become very charged.
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The statement reads in part: “I write to inform you that Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has banned all political gatherings in any form, be it inter or intra party or groups in Benue State till further notice.
“This has become necessary following intelligence on the volatility of the security atmosphere in the state. It is certainly not news to you how the security atmosphere in the state is charged following the unprecedented influx of armed herdsmen in the state.
“You are by this notification invited to enforce this directive. Accept the assurances and best regards from the Governor of Benue State.”
The governor’s decision comes barely a week after the Benue State Security Council handed a 14-day ultimatum to herders violating the state’s anti-open grazing law to stop rearing their animals outside ranches..