Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has issued a stern warning that he cannot guarantee the safety of any person or group attempting to enter the state without prior notice or approval.
The governor urged individuals considering such visits to reconsider their plans in the interest of their own safety.
In a statement released on Monday, April 14, by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, and titled “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State,” Governor Alia made it clear that he is not expecting any visitors and is currently engaged in high-level meetings concerning urgent state matters.
“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.”
The governor advised against any form of visit, particularly those that might lead to political gatherings or assemblies, without obtaining formal approval. He warned that such unapproved visits would be at the visitor’s own risk.
“Therefore, 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. 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.”
Additionally, the statement emphasized that any individual or group planning to visit Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps within the state must first obtain written permission from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
“We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state,” the statement concluded.