By Admin
Gov. Hyacinth Alia has strongly advocated for the establishment of state police to tackle the security challenges bedevilling the country.
A statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media (Judicial), Mr Rafael Akume, indicated that Alia made his position known during the public hearing on the review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
The governor, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Mr Fidelis Mnyim, spoke at the north central zone public hearing on Saturday in Lafia.
He strongly endorsed the establishment of state police to tackle the growing rates of insecurity in Benue and Nigeria.
Alia recalled that he had earlier made a similar call during a town hall meeting with President Bola Tinubu in attendance.
The governor added that state police were critical for the effective tackling of the unique security challenges faced by his people.
He said state police would significantly enhance the enforcement of the Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law, empowering local authorities to respond decisively to community security concerns.
He pointed out it would address the limitations placed on state governors, who serve as chief security officers but often lack the authority to direct national security outfits.
Alia said that there was an urgent need for electoral reforms to further fortify Nigeria’s democracy.
He explained that many issues surrounding pre- and post-election disputes arose from the existing constitutional framework, which he said complicated the fair administration of justice in electoral petitions.
The governor also used the opportunity to showcase Benue’s abundant mineral resources, adding that it has all the 44 mineral resources in the country, with 36 in high commercial quantities.
He emphasised that Benue was proactively seeking legislative measures to enhance its economy and promote sustainable development. NAN
