29th July 2024
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has revealed that local bandits terrorizing the Sankera axis of the state have rejected government efforts aimed at rehabilitating them. The governor made this announcement on Sunday in Makurdi, following a review of security activities in Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Logo Local Government Areas (LGAs) within the Sankera axis.
The Sankera axis has long been a hotspot for criminal activities, and the security situation deteriorated further after the military’s killing of bandit leader Terwase Akwaza, also known as Gana, in 2020. This event led to a fragmentation of his group into rival factions.
State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Matthew Abo, disclosed that the bandits had declined all offers from the state government for peace talks. The bandits have accused the government of betrayal, alleging that promises of amnesty were not fulfilled.
Governor Alia explained that his administration had made several attempts to engage the bandits, offering educational and vocational opportunities as part of a rehabilitation plan. “During my campaign, I urged all groups creating instability to cease their actions. We aimed to help them leave the bush, offering schooling and skill training for those willing,” Alia stated.
Despite these efforts, some bandits who were willing to accept the offer were reportedly killed by rival factions within the bush, exacerbating the violence. Alia also criticized certain politicians for allegedly supporting the bandits, further complicating the situation.
“For many years, the instability in the Ukum area has largely been due to homegrown bandits, not outsiders. Politicians from Abuja are reportedly behind the support for these bandits,” Alia accused.
The governor emphasized that his administration would continue to pursue dialogue with the bandits, despite the setbacks. “We remain committed to talking to them and extending olive branches,” he concluded.