Group Seeks Probe Of Alleged Plot To Make 2027 Ungovernable In Benue
A civil society group, National Intelligence Watch, on Thursday called on security agencies to probe an alleged plot in some quarters to make Benue State ungovernable ahead of the forthcoming 2027 general elections by importing foreign fighters.
The group, in a statement by its Chairman, Chief Matthew Apine, expressed concern over allegations that hired fighters could be recruited to cause violence and threaten the safety of residents and the credibility of the electoral process.
The group also expressed concern over claims that criminal activities could be exploited to discredit the state government and influence the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election.
It urged political leaders to resolve their differences through lawful democratic processes rather than actions capable of undermining peace and security.
The organisation called for heightened vigilance in communities considered vulnerable to violence, particularly in areas where political competition and existing security challenges could increase tensions.
It urged residents to report credible information about threats to the appropriate security agencies and cautioned against spreading unverified reports that could provoke panic or inflame political divisions.
National Intelligence Watch stressed the need for security agencies to remain professional and impartial, warning against the use of state institutions to settle political scores or intimidate political opponents.
The organisation also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant institutions to work with security agencies to ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted in a peaceful and credible atmosphere.
It maintained that no political ambition should take precedence over the protection of lives and property, adding that allegations of foreign involvement in domestic political violence, if substantiated, would require urgent and decisive action.
The organisation urged all parties involved in the political dispute to exercise restraint and refrain from statements or actions capable of escalating tensions in Benue State.
It said the priority should be to preserve public safety, protect democratic institutions and ensure that the people of Benue State are able to participate freely in the electoral process without fear or intimidation.
