By Musa Baba Adamu
The Nasarawa State Government has issued a strong warning to former federal lawmaker from Benue State, Mark Gbilah, over what it described as inflammatory and misleading statements capable of escalating tensions between Nasarawa and Benue states.
In a statement yesterday by Peter Ahemba, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, the state government dismissed allegations that Nasarawa is harbouring bandits responsible for attacks on communities in Benue.
The statement was in response to comments made by Gbilah during a recent appearance on an African Independent Television (AIT) programme, where he claimed that bandits terrorizing Benue were being sheltered in Nasarawa State.
“Ordinarily, we would have ignored such unsubstantiated claims, but in view of the sensitivity of the matter and the potential to mislead the public, it has become necessary to set the records straight,” Ahemba said.
The Nasarawa State Government reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and security, stressing that Governor Sule has consistently demonstrated solidarity with neighbouring states, particularly Benue and Plateau, in efforts to combat insecurity.
“It is on record that His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, as Governor of Nasarawa State and Chairman of the North-Central Governors Forum, has been at the forefront of regional security cooperation,” the statement read.
Ahemba cited several recent high-level engagements, including a North-Central Governors Forum meeting convened by Governor Sule which was attended by Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia to address rising insecurity in the region.
“With such active collaboration and mutual concern for the region, it is both illogical and malicious for anyone to suggest that Nasarawa is harbouring elements attacking Benue,” Ahemba added.
The state government described Hon. Gbilah’s comments as a “malicious attempt to incite conflict” and undermine the fragile peace between the two states.
Ahemba urged public figures and stakeholders to refrain from divisive rhetoric and instead work collectively to address the security challenges facing the region.
“Rather than making provocative and unguarded statements, we expect Hon. Gbilah to see himself as a stakeholder in the peace and security project for our region,” the statement added.
The Nasarawa State Government called on the public to disregard the allegations by the former federal lawmaker, reaffirming its condolences to the government and people of Benue over recent attacks.
“We wish to use this medium to reiterate our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Benue and other neighbouring states over the recent killings of innocent citizens,” Ahemba said.
He assured that Nasarawa remains committed to peace and security within its borders, and will continue to work in close cooperation with neighbouring states to address shared security concerns.
“The Nasarawa State Government will not be distracted by false narratives. Our focus remains on promoting peace, unity, and stability for the benefit of all citizens,” the statement concluded.
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