Terseer Ugbor, who represents Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has blamed the rising insecurity in Benue State on poor coordination among political leaders. He specifically accused Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration of sidelining lawmakers and playing “bad politics” with serious security issues.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, May 9, the APC lawmaker expressed concern over the lack of collaboration between the state government and National Assembly members. “Since I joined the House of Reps, I’ve never been invited by the governor to discuss issues—even though my constituency is one of the worst hit by insecurity,” Ugbor said.
He revealed that his repeated attempts to engage the state government and involve the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in providing relief to affected communities were ignored. “There have been multiple efforts from my side, but no response. Not even an invitation to key meetings,” he added.
Ugbor criticized the governor for excluding lawmakers from crucial security discussions, including a newly formed security committee. “The government doesn’t seem to think we have a role. It’s just bad politics,” he said.
Despite the political differences, Ugbor stressed that insecurity in Benue must not be politicized. “We’re ready to work with the governor and every arm of government to restore peace,” he said.
He also warned about the broader consequences of the crisis, noting that armed herdsmen have taken over more than 40% of the state’s arable land, leaving farmers displaced and vulnerable. Recent attacks in Ukum and Logo LGAs have left over 50 people dead.
In response to the crisis, Governor Alia has appealed to the Federal Government for urgent support, calling for stronger action by security agencies to stop the ongoing violence.