Benue State insecurity linked to local government fund control, says ADC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia of undermining local security by maintaining excessive control over local government funds. The party claims that the State Joint Local Government Account prevents democratically elected chairmen from having the direct resources necessary to respond to rising insecurity.

According to the ADC, the lack of direct funding has left local governments unable to fuel patrol vehicles, support community vigilantes, or maintain rural roads essential for security access. The party highlighted that communities in Guma, Kwande, Gwer West, Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Logo are facing daily attacks, which has disrupted farming, schooling, and general safety. The ADC argued that by centralizing funds in Makurdi, the administration is stifling local intelligence and rapid response capabilities at the ward level.