By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Benue State Government, on Monday in Makurdi, clarified that its proposed rehabilitation centre will serve forcibly recruited youths, not terrorists. The Director General of the Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission, Josephine Habba, addressed the concerns ahead of a February 25, 2025 peace summit. She explained that the centre, located in Anyiin, Logo LGA, aims to break criminal recruitment chains. According to her, the initiative focuses on reintegration, psychological support, and livelihood training for affected youths.
Insecurity in Sankera Axis Beyond Herder-Farmer Clashes
Habba stressed that insecurity in the Sankera axis goes beyond herder-farmer conflicts. The affected areas include Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo LGAs.
According to her, armed banditry has disrupted communities for years. She noted that many of those involved are local youths.
“These are largely our children, young people who were drawn or forced into banditry,” she said.
She explained that criminal groups often abduct youths from markets, homes, and highways. The gangs then force them to serve as foot soldiers, aides, or cooks.
Governor Alia’s Intervention in Katsina-Ala
In early 2024, Governor Hyacinth Alia visited Katsina-Ala following reports of mass abductions.
After the visit, officials conducted discreet assessments. They profiled over 1,800 individuals. Notably, more than 1,170 had no prior criminal records.
Habba said authorities avoided open screenings due to security risks.
“Our goal is to break the chain of recruitment,” she stated.
Over 400 Youths Ready for Reintegration
Furthermore, Habba revealed that more than 400 youths have expressed willingness to leave criminal networks.
However, she emphasized that reintegration must follow a structured process. The DDR Centre in Anyiin will provide:
- Psychological counselling
- Livelihood training
- Certification programmes
- Start-up kits
- Community reconstruction support
She insisted that the programme excludes Boko Haram fighters and foreign militants.
“This is not for Boko Haram fighters or external militants. It is for our children who were taken into the creeks. The misrepresentation is unfair,” she added.
Peace Framework to Be Unveiled February 25, 2025
Meanwhile, the state will unveil a comprehensive peace framework at a summit on February 25, 2025.
The initiative aims to ensure seamless reintegration of youths and rebuild affected communities. Officials believe the approach will reduce violence and restore stability in the Sankera axis.
Habba dismissed claims that the facility would harbour terrorists. She described such reports as “mischievous misrepresentations.”
Therefore, the government reaffirmed its commitment to peacebuilding and youth rehabilitation across Benue State.
