By Mercy Aikoye
Dr. Jeffrey Kuraun, a former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, has expressed outrage over the persistent killings and insecurity in the state. According to him, these attacks are not only tragic but also deeply alarming, especially considering the state’s substantial resources.
Kuraun emphasized that the ongoing bloodshed demands more than just sympathy and condemnation; it requires bold, effective, and accountable leadership from the state government. Benue State receives the largest monthly allocation for security in Nigeria, over ₦3 billion, yet communities remain vulnerable to attacks. This raises serious questions about the effectiveness of fund utilization.
The former governorship aspirant stressed that blame games won’t solve the problem; instead, the current administration must take responsibility for the security situation. In a statement titled “Accountability Over Excuses, Benue Must Lead the Security Response,” Kuraun posited that leadership means taking initiative and not waiting for external actors. Excuses and blame cannot replace action.
A coordinated local response is crucial, and community policing units must be trained and equipped. Traditional rulers, local leaders, and vigilante networks should also be formally engaged to tackle insecurity. To rebuild public trust and ensure funds aren’t misappropriated, Kuraun called for a public audit of security spending.
Kuraun also emphasized the need for transparency in security vote spending. The state government should lift the veil of secrecy over security vote spending, allowing the people of Benue State to know what exactly ₦3 billion is achieving monthly. The era of unaccounted spending must give way to measurable security outcomes.
According to Kuraun, Benue is home to millions of Nigerians whose lives and livelihoods are at stake. The state government must lead the security intervention with courage, clarity, and full accountability. Kuraun’s demands come amid growing criticism of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration over its handling of insecurity.
Some APC members have even sought the governor’s expulsion, citing alleged anti-party conduct and disloyalty. Others have called on President Tinubu to intervene, saying Alia’s administration has run out of ideas to address the security crisis. The insecurity in Benue has been ongoing, with various administrations facing challenges in tackling the issue.
Ultimately, Kuraun emphasized that lives must matter more than politics, and inaction is no longer acceptable. The state government must prioritize the security and well-being of its citizens, ensuring that the security votes are used effectively to achieve tangible outcomes.
