Speaking after a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Grace, Government House Makurdi, the Governor expressed deep concern over the recent surge in violence. He lamented that the bandits, who are from the region, have turned against their own communities. The Governor's comments were in response to recent attacks in Sankera, which initially resulted in six deaths in Ukum LGA and led to a violent protest, followed by the brutal murder of 18 people in Katsina-Ala LGA. A viral video showing bandits threatening further violence has also added to the tension.

Governor Alia described the security situation in Sankera as complex, comparing it to an octopus due to the multifaceted nature of the insecurity affecting the region. He emphasized that during his campaign, he had called on those causing instability across the three Senatorial zones to lay down their arms, promising a new government dedicated to liberating them and ending the violence.

"Unfortunately, the involvement of the political wing complicates the already existing instability," he said. "For many years, there have been skirmishes of instability in the Ukum area. What pains me most is that this instability is not caused by external invaders but by homegrown bandits killing their own families and preventing them from farming."

Governor Alia highlighted the uniqueness of the security issues in Ukum LGA and the Sankera axis, noting that in other regions, insecurity often involves fighting external aggressors. In contrast, the violence in Sankera is perpetrated by local individuals against their communities.

Despite the challenges, Governor Alia remains committed to dialogue. "I have extended numerous olive branches to them, inviting them to come out. For those interested in education, the state is willing to sponsor them. For those inclined towards trades, we will help them acquire better skills and fund their businesses. This initiative aims to encourage them to leave the bushes and stop destabilizing the LGAs and killing their own people."