Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued a stern warning to individuals or groups planning to visit the state without notifying his office, stressing that he cannot guarantee their safety.
The governor particularly cautioned against any unscheduled visit to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps, insisting that such visits must be cleared by the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
The directive was contained in a statement released on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, titled “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State.”
Part of the statement reads: “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.”
“He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.”
The governor urged caution, stating: “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,” the statement added.
Governor Alia further emphasized the need for proper coordination when visiting displaced persons in the state.
“Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from 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.
