Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued a firm warning to individuals and groups planning to visit the state without official clearance, stating that their safety cannot be guaranteed.
In a statement released on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor stressed that he was not expecting any visitors and emphasized the need for prior notification before any such trips, especially those with political implications or intentions to visit Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
“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,” the statement read. “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.”
Governor Alia also cautioned against any unscheduled visits that may stir political activity or gatherings in the state without proper approval. “He strongly advises against any group or high-profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval,” the statement added.
More pointedly, the governor said such visits would be at the visitor’s own risk: “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.”
Regarding visits to IDP camps, Governor Alia instructed that such activities must be cleared with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA). “All individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from BSEMA,” the statement emphasized.
He called on security agencies and residents to remain vigilant and maintain public order. “We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state,” the statement concluded.