Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has appealed to organizers of the planned August 1st, 2024, hunger protest to shelve their plans and instead, present their demands to the government for consideration. The governor made this call on Sunday, July 28th, 2024, after Mass at the Chapel of Grace, Government House Makurdi.
Governor Alia emphasized the need for dialogue and collaboration, stating that the present government is committed to addressing the concerns of the people. He commended the State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services for engaging with union leaders and groups, dissuading them from joining the protest.
The governor also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for Benue State, citing various projects executed across the state as a result of this support. He described the crisis in Ukum as unfortunate and announced the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the matter.
Governor Alia blamed Abuja politicians for fueling militia attacks in Ukum but expressed his commitment to extending an olive branch to the militiamen. He assured the people of Benue that insecurity will soon be a thing of the past and commended uniformed men for their efforts in securing the state.
The governor thanked the leaders and congregants of the Government House Chapel for organizing prayers for the government and people of the state, promising to continue doing his best to deliver on his mandate.
