Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has expressed dismay over the inability of security agencies to curtail the worsening insecurity in the state despite his administration's concerted efforts to address the situation.

Speaking through his media aide, Sir Kula Tersoo, Governor Alia lamented that even with the deployment of additional security personnel and high-profile visits by security chiefs, not a single terrorist has been apprehended in the state.

The governor's comments came in response to criticism from a faction of the Benue State All Progressives Congress (APC) loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, which accused his administration of lacking the capacity to handle the security challenges plaguing the state.

The Akume-led APC faction had referenced recent herdsmen attacks that claimed 42 lives, describing the governor as "helpless and confused" and calling for President Bola Tinubu's intervention.

Governor's Efforts to Combat Insecurity

"What more do they expect from the governor? He has worked tirelessly to address the security crisis," Tersoo stated, defending the governor's efforts.

"His efforts are evident in the visits by the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, other top security officials, and even the National Security Adviser. More security personnel have been deployed, yet, sadly, no terrorist has been arrested," he added.

According to Tersoo, the governor has provided substantial support to security operations, including 300 motorcycles to enhance the mobility of security forces in the state.

Historical Context of Insecurity in Benue

The governor's spokesperson urged Akume's APC faction to reflect on the security challenges that plagued previous administrations, particularly under Akume himself and former Governor Samuel Ortom, citing communal clashes and armed herder invasions during those periods.

"What is happening now is not worse than the crisis during Akume's tenure when people from Taraba and Nasarawa states invaded Benue, or the attacks under Ortom's administration," Tersoo emphasized.

The ongoing security situation in Benue State continues to be a significant challenge, with recent attacks highlighting the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the region despite increased security presence and government interventions.