Abraham Waroh, the Benue North East Zonal Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has publicly criticized Governor Hyacinth Alia for not fulfilling his promise to enhance security within Benue State. In a statement made to journalists on Monday at the PDP state secretariat in Makurdi, Waroh expressed that the electorate had voted for Alia based on his commitment to combat the state’s security issues, but he has not met those expectations.
Waroh articulated that an impartial review of the state’s current security conditions reveals a stark decline, describing the situation as an “unprecedented retrogression” at the grassroots level. He accused the Alia administration of failing to address the “palpable security menace” which he likened to a “cancerous tumor” due to the ongoing threats posed by killer herdsmen.
He pointed out that significant areas of the state, particularly Sankera, are now under the control of Fulani herdsmen, leading to widespread displacement among residents. Waroh specifically referenced the recent violence in Otukpo, where numerous killings led to a mass burial of victims, underscoring the severity of the security breakdown.
Despite his strong criticisms, Waroh suggested a cooperative stance, indicating that the opposition PDP would work with Governor Alia for the remainder of his term to manage the state’s affairs. However, he also made it clear that the PDP is gearing up to assume leadership in 2027, aiming to rectify the current administration’s shortcomings in security and governance.
This critique from Waroh highlights a significant political tension in Benue State, where security, particularly related to conflicts between farmers and herders, has been a persistent and critical issue. The PDP’s readiness to challenge Alia in future elections signals ongoing political battles and dissatisfaction with the current state governance under his leadership.
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