Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia yesterday launched a joint security taskforce code-named ‘Operation Anyam Nyor’ to complement the efforts of the conventional securities in the fight against insecurity in the state.
The governor also inaugurated 5,000 officers of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) with an advice to criminals to embrace the ongoing amnesty programme chaired by the Tor Tiv and Catholic Bishop of Kastina/Ala Diocese, His Lordship, Most Revd. Isaac Dugu, aimed at reintegrating them into society before the full implementation the joint taskforce.
Governor Alia explained that the BSCPG was established by law to complement efforts of conventional security apparatuses in the state by synergising and comparing notes on security challenges and adopting global best practices in tackling insecurity.
He said, “As we all know, for any society to progress, security must be prioritised. The stability of a community forms the bedrock for meaningful and sustainable development. With this understanding, and in pursuit of our collective vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and an industrialised Benue State, we have made strategic investments aimed at fortifying the capacity of our security agencies.
“The goal is to decisively combat criminality and create an environment where our people can live, farm, work, and thrive without fear. I take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the good people of Benue State. His consistent concern for the security of the Nigerians is commendable, and we are grateful for the assistance his administration continues to provide in strengthening the security apparatus in our state.
“I also wish to acknowledge the critical role played by the Benue State Traditional Council, led by the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, the Ochi Idoma, His Royal Majesty Chief John Odogbo, and all the traditional rulers in the state. Their tireless efforts in the peace and amnesty process have contributed immensely to the ongoing stabilisation efforts in our state.”
While appreciating his fellow governors, whose cooperation and encouragement he said had been invaluable in achieving a shared commitment to national security, the governor also commended the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the service chiefs and especially the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who recently donated two Armored Personnel Carriers to the state.
National chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Abdullahi Ganduje, said he was overwhelmed with the crowd and security vehicles and motorcycles he saw on ground even as he called for involvement of communities in the fight against insecurity, saying without the locals there will be lapses.
The Tor Tiv, Orvhivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, commended the governor for such a laudable initiative, describing it as the first of its kind, even as he warned politicians against using the civil guards for their selfish interest.
The paramount ruler of the Tiv nation described Alia as a silent achiever with a promise of the full backing of the traditional institution to enable him to succeed in his fight against insecurity and developmental strides in the State.
Earlier, President Tinubu in a telephone conversation with the governor during the launch said he was in full support of his fight against insecurity by “110 per cent”.