The Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has expressed deep concern over a series of alleged attacks by herdsmen on Benue communities, resulting in the loss of lives and property.
In a statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Kula Tersoo, Governor Alia pledged that he would not rest until such barbaric acts are curtailed.
The governor’s statement came in response to a tragic incident on Tuesday night, in which suspected armed Fulani herdsmen reportedly killed nine people in three communities within the Logo and Gwer West local government areas.
Governor Alia strongly condemned the nefarious activities of the herders, describing their actions as maiming and killing innocent Benue citizens without clear motives.
According to reports, five people lost their lives in the communities of Mahanga and Ayilamo in the Logo Local Government Area, while another four were killed at Nagi camp, Mbachohon council ward of Gwer West Local Government Area in separate attacks.
An eyewitness, identified as Torkuma, recounted the attacks, stating that the herdsmen initially targeted Mahanga, where two people were killed, and later proceeded to Ayilamo, claiming three more lives.
He also mentioned that many others sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The victims of Tuesday’s attack were identified as Ayev Jôgunô, Faiga Apefan, Msendoo Vaachima, James Iorliam, and Orgbee Mnguerorga, while those injured included Mrs. Mngohol Utile, Mr. Vershima Meeme, and Mrs. Terpase Nyerga.
In Gwer West Local Government Area, suspected herders reportedly invaded Nagi camp, Mbachohon council ward, where they killed four people.
The attackers entered the village without provocation and opened fire indiscriminately, leaving four dead bodies in their wake.
The spokesperson for the state police command, Catherine Anene, confirmed the incidents, stating that five people were killed in Logo, while she had yet to receive information regarding Gwer West.
Governor Alia expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and called upon security agencies in the state to swiftly investigate the situation and apprehend those suspected of being behind the attacks, ensuring they face the full force of the law.
