By Amos Aar
GOVERNOR Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has condemned the recent attacks in Kwande and Katsina-Ala local government areas where armed men suspected to be herdsmen unleashed violence, leaving several casualties and destroying homes.
In a statement on Saturday, Governor Alia addressed the unrest in Jato-Aka following a protest staged by residents, particularly women in Kwande, over the worsening insecurity in the axis.
The statement signed by Mr Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Alia urged the protesters to remain calm, assuring that his administration was working relentlessly to restore peace.
“I share your pains, and I assure you that we will step up our response promptly. The remorseless barbarity of these assailants and their sponsors will soon be a thing of the past,” Alia assured.
The governor reiterated his commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Benue State and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible while urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
“We appeal to everybody to remain watchful and report any doubtful activities to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve lasting peace,” he stated.
The governor however warned against individuals exploiting his name to create division in Kwande and other areas, stating that his leadership remains for the collective good of all Benue people.
On Sunday, Governor Alia in another statement, also signed by Mr Kula, expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims in Kpav, particularly in Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, Katsina-Ala LGA, describing the attack as “cruel and unacceptable.” He reassured the people of Benue that his administration is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
“This measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced,” he declared, emphasising that security forces have already been deployed to the affected areas. He further assured that additional security measures are being implemented to track the attackers and prevent further incidents.
He extended his prayers for the deceased and urged unity among residents to stand against violence and insecurity in the state.
The two press statements by governor Alia in a sequence to condemn suspected herders’ attack on Benue communities seemingly stem from public accusations that he has been mute in the face of the killings and the attitude may affect his 2027 reelection bid.
