Benue state governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has expressed sadness over the attack on the Efeyi community in Ugboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area, allegedly carried out by suspected armed herders in the early hours of Tuesday.
The governor condemned the killings, describing the attack as a heinous crime against the peaceful people of Benue State, and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Governor Alia also commended the Benue State Command of the Nigeria Police, led by Commissioner of Police Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, for its swift response to the incident, which led to the neutralization of two suspected armed bandits believed to have participated in the attack.
According to reports, scores of residents were killed, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries when suspected armed herders invaded the Efeyi community in another wave of violence.
Following the attack, operatives of the Benue State Police Command launched a manhunt for the assailants. During the operation, officers reportedly engaged the fleeing suspects in a gun battle, resulting in the deaths of two suspected bandits who were allegedly providing cover for their accomplices to escape.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and protect lives and property.
“Benue land is for Benue people. Those who think they can come and push the people away and take over should think twice,” the governor said.
He added: “Our people are peaceful and hardworking. I was elected to protect them, and I must do everything legitimately possible to ensure my people are protected and our land is secured.”
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to work closely with security agencies to safeguard communities across the state.