The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has expressed deep concern and outrage of the abduction of passengers, including young candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), at Otukpo.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula strongly condemned what he termed ” reprehensible and cowardly act” by criminal elements.
He said “the targeting of innocent citizens, particularly students on their way to sit for examinations, is unacceptable and stands against every norm of humanity and civil order”.
The Governor however assured the people of Benue State, especially the affected families and parents, that security agencies have already swung into action and are firmly on the heels of the perpetrators.
“Tactical teams have been fully mobilised, and coordinated, search-and-rescue operations are also ongoing to ensure the safe return of all abducted persons”, he started
He reiterated his earlier call that terrorists and other criminals hiding in forests within the state should immediately be flushed out.
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The Governor said he is in constant communication with security commanders on the ground. He has directed that no effort be spared in securing the immediate release of the victims and bringing the criminals to justice.
“We understand the anxiety and pain this incident has caused, particularly to parents whose children were among those abducted.
“We stand with you at this difficult time and assure you that everything humanly and operationally possible will be done to secure their safe release”, he assured.
The Governor also reiterated his commitment to strengthening security across the state and urges residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to continue to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information where necessary.
The Governor also stated that Benue State will not succumb to criminality and assures the residents of the state saying, “We will continue to take decisive actions to protect lives and property”.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
