Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued a strong warning to individuals or groups intending to visit the state without prior notice or clearance, stating that he cannot guarantee their safety.
In a statement released on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, and titled “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State,” Governor Alia emphasized that any visit, especially to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, must first be cleared through the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
The statement read, “The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today. He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.”
He further cautioned against visits that could evolve into political gatherings without official approval, urging security operatives and residents to be vigilant and uphold public order.
“For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed,” the statement added.
The governor reiterated the importance of formal permission for humanitarian visits, especially to IDP locations, “Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA.”
He concluded by calling on security agencies and the general public to take the notice seriously and ensure continued peace and stability in the state.
