I’m Against Self-Defence, Says Gov Alia Amid Massacre of His People

By Arthur Maduka

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has rejected growing calls for self-defence by citizens in response to the surge of deadly attacks across the state. Speaking during an interview with AIT on Tuesday, the governor warned that resorting to weapons such as knives, machetes, and sticks would only expose residents to greater danger.

“Each time I speak about this, I get very passionate about it,” Mr. Alia said. “But I’m cautiously guiding citizens. It is not just advisable for you to say we’ll pick out knives, machetes, and sticks and get out there to fight. That’s not good.”

He emphasised that self-defence, driven by emotion and sentiment, could make communities even more vulnerable to the well-armed attackers that have terrorised the region in recent months. Instead, he called for the implementation of community policing, which he said would empower local residents who are familiar with the terrain to take the lead in securing their communities.

“I would encourage us to keep calling for community policing. There are conversations around community policing. I’m one of the governors that accepted it,” Mr. Alia said. “If it is community policing, the full power resides with those who understand the terrain where we are attacked, who know the length and breadth of our borders.”

The governor’s comments come amid mounting frustration over the government’s inability to curb the violence. Over the weekend, dozens were reportedly killed in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, prompting renewed calls for self-defence from prominent figures.

Former Senate President David Mark warned that if the killings persist unchecked, Benue people may have no option but to defend themselves. Similarly, Pastor Johnson Suleman of Omega Fire Ministry urged residents to take up arms in defence of their lives and communities.