Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has urged communities to embrace community policing as a solution to the ongoing security challenges in the state. He cautioned against communities resorting to self-defence as a response to the attacks.

Recent events in Benue State have been marked by severe attacks from armed herders, leading to the tragic loss of over 300 lives. These incidents have raised concerns over the safety of residents, particularly in areas like Yelewata, where the governor pointed fingers at the herders for the violence.

While addressing the situation, Governor Alia stressed that relying on self-defence might expose communities to further dangers. He explained that such actions could make them more vulnerable to retaliatory attacks by the assailants.

During his interview on AIT’s Kakaaki program, the governor highlighted the importance of local security strategies. He noted that community policing is a sustainable solution because locals have a better understanding of the dynamics within their communities. He said, “It’s only people from within the state and local government who would understand what is going on with them.”

Governor Alia encouraged residents to push for the implementation of community policing as a safer and more effective approach to tackling insecurity.