- Safiu Kehinde
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has on Monday ruled out any high profile visit to the state as he cited safety concerns.
In what was considered as a reaction to the planned visit to the state by 2023 Labour Party’s Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Hyacinth was claimed to be engaged in high-profile meeting and not expecting any ‘August Visitor’.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula.
The governor, according to the statement urged Obi and others planning to visit the state to reconsider such plans, as their safety and security cannot be guaranteed.
Hyacinth also noted that all individuals or groups intending to visit Internally Displaced People’s (IDP) camp in the state must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
The statement read in part; “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.
“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.
“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.
“Thank you for your understanding.”