…Hikes traditional rulers’ allowances
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has pledged to revive the moribund Katsina-Ala Water Works and the Yam Flour Company, and announced an upward review of allowances for traditional rulers across the state effective next month.
Governor Alia made the promises on Monday in Katsina-Ala during a thank you tour and town hall meeting with traditional rulers and members of the clergy from Sankera
He said the revival of the two critical institutions was part of his administration’s commitment to restoring basic infrastructure and boosting the local economy in the Sankera axis and Benue State at large.
The Governor disclosed that the salaries and allowances of traditional rulers would be increased starting from September 2026. He noted that traditional institutions remain vital partners in governance, peacebuilding, and grassroots mobilization, and deserve better welfare to enable them to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
Speaking on the security situation in the area, Governor Alia issued a final call to criminal elements hiding in the bushes to surrender within the month of August.
He warned that the government would no longer tolerate insecurity and that security personnel have been directed to launch a full clampdown on those who fail to heed the amnesty window.
“This month is your window to lay down your arms and embrace peace. After this, the full weight of the law will come down on anyone found engaging in criminality,” the Governor stated.
To enhance security operations, Governor Alia also donated thirty motorcycles to security personnel operating in the Sankera axis.
He said the motorcycles would improve mobility and response time of security agencies in tackling banditry and other criminal activities in the rural communities.
Traditional rulers and clergy at the meeting commended the Governor for the interventions and pledged their continued support for government policies aimed at restoring peace and development in the area.
The town hall meeting was part of the Governor’s ongoing statewide engagement with stakeholders and the people for their support
