Benue PDP Chieftain Rejects Northern Joint Security Plan, Seeks State-Driven Approach

 

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, Bemgba Iortyom, has rejected the new Northern regional security arrangement, insisting it does not reflect the specific security priorities of the state.

Under the joint framework, 19 northern states are expected to contribute N1 billion monthly each to a regional security fund aimed at boosting intelligence gathering, logistics, technology deployment and community policing across the region.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Iortyom said the initiative—which also includes proposals for state police, a six-month suspension of mining activities and the establishment of a Northern Security Trust Fund—fails to account for Benue’s unique security challenges.

He argued that Benue would benefit more from direct investment in its internal security structures, rather than dedicating substantial monthly resources to a regional pool whose impact on the state remained unclear.

“Benue’s security challenges require home-grown solutions backed by strong community policing, empowered local government security outfits and improved collaboration with federal security agencies,” he said.

The PDP chieftain urged northern leaders to apply caution in the push for state police, stressing that any model adopted must rest on clear legal frameworks, administrative structures and safeguards that guarantee professionalism and accountability.

Iortyom also questioned the proposed suspension of mining activities across the North, saying Benue should instead strengthen its internal regulatory mechanisms to ensure safe and responsible mining practices.

He raised concerns over the proposed Northern Security Trust Fund, insisting that Benue citizens deserve clarity on how their monthly contributions would translate into tangible security improvements.

“Before committing significant resources, there must be transparent governance structures and measurable benefits for Benue. Our security needs are unique and require policies developed within the state,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to thoroughly scrutinise the arrangement and ensure that decisions taken align with the long-term security and economic interests of Benue people.