By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has said his administration’s determination to rid the state of terrorists, saying all relevant laws would be enforced to restore peace and enable farmers to return to their fields.
Governor Alia made the declaration during an unscheduled inspection visit to the Taraku Mills in Gwer East Local Government Area, where he assessed ongoing maintenance work at the multi-billion-naira state-owned processing company.
The governor said insecurity remains the greatest threat to agricultural production and economic growth, stressing that his administration would not relent until criminal elements are driven out of the state.
“I will not relent until terrorists are shown the way out of Benue State. We will sustain the enforcement of relevant laws and continue to pursue and comb known terrorist hideouts to ensure they face justice,” he said.
Alia noted that although Benue farmers have the capacity to supply the factory with soybeans, maize and groundnuts, persistent insecurity in parts of Benue and neighbouring Nasarawa, Cross River, Kogi and Taraba states could undermine efforts to revive the mill.
“That is why I am serious and unwavering on the issue of insecurity. Terrorists must leave Benue. We will continue to fight until they vacate our land. Nobody will take Benue land,” he declared.
During the inspection, engineers handling the rehabilitation powered several repaired machines to demonstrate the progress made in restoring the factory to full operational capacity.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work, saying the rehabilitation was on course for production to commence within the projected timeframe.
He urged farmers across the state, particularly those cultivating soybeans, maize and groundnuts, to increase production in anticipation of the factory’s reopening.
According to him, the revival of Taraku Mills will create a robust agricultural value chain, stimulate farming activities, generate employment and strengthen the state’s economy.
Alia also said Benue’s economy had begun to witness steady improvement through reforms introduced by both the Federal Government and his administration over the past three years.
He commended the engineers for their professionalism and dedication and praised the host community for protecting the facility from vandalism and theft over the years, describing residents as disciplined, responsible and committed to the success of the project.
