By John Ogunsemore
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has condemned suspected armed herdsmen attacks on Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa communities, in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of the state.
This is contained in a Sunday statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula.
It was gathered that suspected marauding armed herdsmen attacked the affected communities, killing an unspecified number of people on Saturday.
A video of lifeless bodies of victims circulated on social media after the attacks.
In his statement, the governor condoled with the families of the victims and the affected communities, noting that the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes is a painful reminder of the challenges his administration encounters in the journey for peace and security in the state.
“This measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced,” the governor said.
Alia condemned “this barbarous action in the strongest terms”, reassuring the people of Benue State that those responsible would be brought to justice.
He stated that in response to this misfortune, his government has already marshaled security forces to the afflicted localities, emphasising that enhanced security steps were being implemented to track the aggressors and forestall further incidents.
“We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villages can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.
“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority. We recognize the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.
“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our willpower to protect our homes and loved ones.
“We appeal to everybody to remain wary and report any doubtful activities to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace”.
The governor extended his prayers for the lives of the deceased and called upon all residents to stand together against brutality and insecurity.