The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), Dr. James Iorpuu, has revealed that 17 out of the 23 local government areas in the state are currently experiencing various forms of attacks.
Speaking to journalists in Makurdi on Wednesday, he disclosed that only Ogbadibo, Ohimini, Konshisha, Gboko, Ushongo, and one other council area have been spared.
Dr. Iorpuu, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, said the persistent attacks have displaced hundreds of thousands of residents, leaving many homeless and financially stranded.
He cautioned that without dredging the Rivers Benue and Niger, Nigeria will continue to experience devastating floods each year.
He noted that the recently concluded Conference of State Emergency Management Agencies in Lagos had significantly enhanced the capacity of emergency managers across Benue.
The BSEMA boss also lauded Governor Hyacinth Alia, saying the governor’s performance has exceeded public expectations.
Rejecting a report by an independent assessor that rated Alia’s administration as average, Iorpuu stated, “For the governor to have not borrowed money from any financial institution since assumption of office is a clear indication of purposeful leadership and accountability.”
He further disclosed that the “Divine Mandate” group, which convinced Alia to contest the 2023 election, remains proud of the governor’s record in office.
According to him, preparations are underway for the second phase of the group’s campaign to promote the governor’s achievements ahead of the 2027 election year.
