Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned an attack on communities in Ukum Local Government Area, where police say three people were killed and four others injured.
The governor has directed security agencies to maintain their presence in strategic locations across the state and intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia said the attackers invaded communities in Mbazun Ward in the early hours of Sunday, killing residents and injuring others.
Alia, who condoled with families of the victims, pledged continued support for security agencies and urged residents to remain vigilant and provide information on suspicious movements.
The governor said attempts to intimidate communities into abandoning their ancestral lands would not succeed, insisting that his administration would continue working with the Federal Government and security agencies to protect lives and property.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack, saying three people were killed in Aboajo Village, Mbateren Mbazum Council Ward of Ukum Local Government Area.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Aondongu, said four other people who sustained machete injuries were rescued and taken to a medical facility for treatment.
The command says additional tactical and patrol teams have been deployed to the area, while efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
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Editor..Ada Ononye
