The Center for Democracy and Human Rights (CEDEHUR) has expressed worry over the worsening security and administrative situation in Benue State under Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The group warned that without swift intervention, insecurity and governance challenges in Benue could escalate, threatening lives, livelihoods, and public confidence in the state government.
The Coordinator of the group, Adebayo Ogory, while addressing a press conference on Thursday in Abuja highlighted a series of violent incidents affecting communities across the state, particularly in Turan (Kwande LGA), Logo, Gwer West, and Agatu.
The group noted that attacks by armed herdsmen have resulted in deaths, displacement, and disruption of farming activities, a vital component of the state’s economy.
It also raised concerns over alleged administrative failures and financial mismanagement in several state agencies, including the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Bureau for Quality Assurance and Examination Board, Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), and the Bureau of Solid Minerals.
The group cited reports of irregular contract awards, diversion of funds, and overall institutional inefficiency.
It decried ongoing illegal mining activities in protected areas involving foreign operators, claiming that the state government had failed to intervene.
“Last weekend, two young men were reportedly killed in Turan following mining activities in the area,” Ogory noted.
Ogory expressed concern over directives allegedly issued by Governor Alia restricting public gatherings without official approval, warning that such measures could undermine civil liberties.
The group called on federal authorities, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and the Nigeria Police, to investigate allegations of financial mismanagement, human rights violations, and security breaches in the state.
It further called on President Bola Tinubu to convene a meeting with Benue stakeholders to address the escalating crisis and called for the immediate halt of illegal mining operations and political thuggery across the state.