By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has urged traditional rulers in the state to support his effort to ensure the security of lives and property in the state.

The Governor who acknowledged that some parts of the state have been under the siege of armed men said it would require the collective effort of all to tackle the menace of insecurity.

He spoke at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Chichii-Gbatse, in Vandeikya Local Government Area, LGA, of the state during the thanksgiving service organised by the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management/Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA, Sir James Iorpuu.

He reassured the people of the state that his administration was actively working to restore peace in all parts of the state

While urging for the support of traditional rulers, the Governor said “I appeal to the Tor Tiv and other traditional rulers to support me in ensuring the security of our people. As the English say, ‘Information is key.’ If you hear something, say something.”

The Governor also cautioned those engaging in unauthorised mining in the state to desist in their own interest as the government had put measures in place to deal with those behind the illegal business.

He referenced the activities of illegal miners in Kwande LGA where he described as the headquarters of rich mineral resources such as gold and lithium reiterating his earlier warning that no one should engage in mining in the state without the approval of the Federal Government.

He said “I have made it clear before, no unauthorized mining is allowed in my state. While the Federal Government controls these resources, they are located on our land, and we must ensure they are managed properly.”

The Governor who stated that governance was a collective responsibility urged his political appointees to take community projects seriously. He maintained that his administration was for the people and was dedicated to making a tangible difference in their lives.

He noted that “as a leader, the responsibility is mine. But I want you to know that we are working tirelessly for the betterment of Benue State.”