The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia has condemned in strong terms the attacks and massacre of innocent citizens at Yelewata by suspected criminal herders, saying nothing should warrant taking of life.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary indicates that the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode visited the scene of the heinous act earlier on Saturday on the directives of the Governor and delivered the message that the Governor is not resting on his oars to ensure the state experiences peace.
He said “Governor Hyacinth Alia acknowledges and shares in your pains and grief caused by this attacks on your community by criminal elements suspected to be armed herdsmen”.
He explained that the State Government is consistently engaging with Federal security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen security interventions and provide lasting solutions to these persistent attacks.
He assured citizens that:
More tactical teams have started arriving to Benue from the Federal Government and additional security deployments are being arranged for vulnerable areas.
Response squad Teams are also deployed and will be in Benue from Sunday while Strategic Community Dialogues are ongoing to enhance active intelligence sharing.
The State’s Joint Operations Units are also being strengthened, and government will not relent in its utmost commitment to defending the lives and properties of all residents.
In the spirit of peace and unity, he called on religious, traditional, and political leaders across the state to sensitize and guide the youths under their influence against unlawful gatherings or confrontations that may spiral out of control.
The Governor appealed to the public to make use of official communication channels to report any suspicious activities and to stay informed through credible sources.
He said Benue State remains committed to justice, peace, and security for all.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)
