“I Don’t Encourage Self Defense” – Governor Alia Hyscinth

In response to the recent surge in violent attacks across Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia has firmly stated his opposition to citizens resorting to self-defence, instead urging a more strategic and coordinated approach to security through community policing.

Speaking during an interview on AIT’s Focus Nigeria, Governor Alia emphasized that while the Constitution permits self-defence, untrained individuals arming themselves with knives, machetes, or sticks could escalate the crisis rather than resolve it. “You need to be trained to understand the dynamics of fighting guerrilla warfare,” he said. “I cautiously advise my people—it’s not wise to pick up weapons without training.”

Governor Alia dismissed the notion that “desperate times call for desperate measures,” warning that emotionally driven responses could deepen insecurity. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening community policing, which he described as a more sustainable and locally informed solution.

With community policing, it becomes easier to identify those who understand the terrain and can be mobilized to support local law enforcement,” he explained. He also acknowledged the federal government’s support in intelligence gathering, which has enhanced the state’s ability to track and apprehend perpetrators of violence.