The Benue State Government has expressed willingness to engage in peace talks with the bandits responsible for ongoing violence in the state, urging them to come forward and discuss their grievances.
In an interview with The PUNCH, Mathew Abo, the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, criticized the bandits for their continued attacks despite the government's offers for dialogue. He stated that the bandits have demanded an amnesty declaration from Governor Hyacinth Alia before they would consider negotiations, while continuing their violent activities.
The call for peace talks follows a recent attack in Mbache council ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, where 18 people were killed on Friday night. This violence occurred despite an ongoing curfew imposed by the state government in response to previous unrest.
The Katsina-Ala LGA Chairman, Justine Shaku, labeled the attackers as ‘terrorists’, noting that the region has been plagued by criminality, exacerbated by the death of notorious bandit leader Terwase Akwaza, aka Gana, in 2020. Gana's followers, divided into groups such as Full Fire, Chaine, and Anginokwu, have continued to cause chaos in the area.
Sources indicate that the militants involved in the recent attack are part of the Gonyon group, which has expressed dissatisfaction with the state government. The group is reportedly upset over unmet promises made during the governor's campaign, including compensation for the bandits.
Commissioner Abo criticized the militants for their impatience and unwillingness to engage in dialogue. He stated that the process of granting amnesty is complex and requires time and negotiation. According to Abo, the government has made several attempts to understand the militants’ issues but has been met with resistance and demands for immediate amnesty.
“The government cannot simply grant amnesty overnight. There is a process involved. We have made efforts to engage with them, but they refuse to come forward or articulate their demands clearly,” Abo explained.
The Benue State Government remains committed to resolving the conflict and is urging the bandits to participate in peace talks to address their concerns and reduce violence in the region.
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