Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the deadly attack on farmers in Akpete/Asaba community of Ojantele Ward, Apa Local Government Area, describing the incident as a brutal assault on innocent citizens.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the ambush on a group of farmers from Ojantelle, Asaba and Akpete who had gone to their cashew farms to harvest produce.
The attackers, believed to be armed herdsmen, reportedly opened fire on the farmers, killing several people, while six others remain missing and a young girl was abducted during the assault.
Governor Alia described the incident as a terrorist act against peaceful farming communities and a painful reminder of the security threats confronting rural populations in the state.
He said the victims were hardworking citizens pursuing their legitimate means of livelihood and did not deserve such violence.
The governor extended condolences to the families of those killed and to the people of Apa Local Government Area, assuring them that the state government stands firmly with them in their moment of grief.
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Governor Alia also directed security agencies to intensify operations in the area to track down the attackers, rescue the abducted girl and locate the missing persons, stressing that those responsible will face justice.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, insisting that no community in Benue will be left vulnerable to violence.
Meanwhile, security agencies say a joint operation involving the police, military and local vigilante groups has been launched to pursue the perpetrators and secure the affected communities.
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Benue State Police Command assured residents that efforts are underway to apprehend those behind the attack, vowing that the command will not relent until the culprits are brought to justice.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
