From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has appealed to the entire people of Kwande Local Government Area, particularly the women who took to the streets to register their grievances over the security situation in the local government to remain calm as his government is working unrelentingly to bring peace to the area.
The governor made this call in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi yesterday.
Alia expressed worry over the incessant attacks on Kwande communities by armed herders, wondering why Kwande and Ukum have received the attention of these attackers now that relative peace had been recorded in other areas of the state.
He, however, assured Kwande and Ukum people of his swift and improved feedback to their situation, describing as remorseless barbarism, the activities of the assailants and their collaborators which he said would be history soon.
“I share your pains, and I assure you that we will step up our response promptly. Read my lips. The remorseless barbarity of these assailants and their sponsors will soon be a thing of the past.”
The Governor re-emphasised his love for Kwande, Ukum and the entire state, recalling that his government had never abandoned them, and would never abandon them just as he promised to ensure that the land of Kwande and Ukum and the entire Benue State was freed from armed herdsmen invasion.
He sympathised with the victims of the recent attacks on Kwande and further called on the security agencies to give the state their best by ensuring that the enemies of the state were caught and accordingly dealt with.
He also warned those who have been using his name to stir controversy in Kwande and other areas of the state to be wary of the potential consequences of their actions, submitting that he is the Governor for all and that he would continue to work for the good of all people, particularly the masses.