By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged to construct the Nyihemba-Tomataan-Mkem-Anwase-Abande road in Turan, Kwande Local Government Area, LGA, of the state as part of urgent measures to improve security and restore normalcy in communities recently attacked by bandits.

The Governor who made the commitment during his visit to the affected areas spoke at the Anwase Market Square after inspecting Anwase, Abande and other troubled communities to obtain first-hand information on the attacks, which have displaced residents and destroyed properties.

The visit came amid growing concerns over repeated incursions by armed criminals in the area.

Addressing residents, the Governor said the proposed road project would enhance security operations and ease movement across the troubled axis.

“This road will enable our security agencies to patrol effectively and respond swiftly to any threat. So work will commence immediately,” he assured.

He explained that the project would involve grading of the road as well as the construction of culverts and bridges where necessary.

According to him, the work would be completed before the onset of the rainy season to prevent further isolation of communities.

Beyond road construction, Governor Alia announced plans to revive electricity supply in Anwase, reactivate solar-powered streetlights and provide potable water in both Nyihemba and Anwase.

He also donated ten motorcycles to strengthen border patrol, noting that the bandits had previously carted away patrol bikes belonging to local vigilantes.

“We will deploy additional motorcycles to improve surveillance across the borders. Our administration is determined to deny criminals any safe haven,” the Governor stated.

He further disclosed that the state government was collaborating with network providers to install a booster in the area to improve communication, directing his Special Adviser on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr. Fidelis Unongu, to ensure completion before the end of the month.

Condemning the attacks as unprovoked, Alia assured residents that safeguarding their lives and dignity remained a top priority revealing that President Bola Tinubu had been fully briefed on the security situation and had ordered reinforcements to the affected communities.

“So with the support of the Federal Government, we are confident that lasting peace will be restored,” he said.

In his remarks, Chairman of Kwande LGA, Mr. Vitalis Neji, lamented that many displaced residents were currently taking refuge at the Anwase Market Square. He disclosed that the council had procured speed boats to strengthen patrol of waterways allegedly exploited by the bandits.

The Benue State Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Mr. Ekon Esoquo, assured that security agencies would intensify border surveillance and secure the waterways.

Also speaking, the Ter Kwande, HRH Chief Timothy Ahile called for proper border demarcation between Kwande LGA and neighbouring councils in Taraba State.

The royal father alleged that bandits often camp across the border before launching attacks in kwande. He appealed for basic amenities in locations hosting displaced persons.