The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned what he described as a “senseless” and tragic attack allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen on residents of Akpete/Asaba community in Ojantele Ward of Apa Local Government Area.
The governor Alia expressed deep sorrow over reports that suspected terrorists ambushed a group of farmers from Ojantelle, Asaba, and Akpete who had gone to their cashew farms to harvest seeds.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula.
According to the statement, the brutal attack resulted in multiple deaths, while six persons remain missing and a young girl was reportedly abducted.
Governor Alia described the incident as an unacceptable act of terrorism and a painful reminder of the persistent security challenges confronting peaceful farming communities across the state.
“How can you come in and attack a people who were simply pursuing their legitimate means of livelihood? My people are hardworking farmers and do not deserve such a cruel fate .
“I condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms. The killing of innocent Benue citizens going about their daily farm work is an assault on our shared humanity and will not be tolerated,” he stated.
He sympathizes with Apa Local Government, the affected communities and the families of the victims over the painful loss, assuring them that the state government stands firmly with them in this difficult moment.
He disclosed that he has directed security agencies to intensify operations in the area to track down the perpetrators of the attack, rescue the abducted girl, and locate those still missing, assuring that every effort is being put in place to ensure that those responsible for the atrocity are brought to justice.
The Governor Alia further reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across Benue State, emphasizing that no community in the state will be abandoned to violence.
He said, “Do not lose hope. My administration is working closely with security agencies and community leaders to strengthen protection around vulnerable areas.”
The Governor Alia who prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed, pleaded God to grant their families the strength to bear the painful loss and assured that, “we will not waver until our people are safe and can return to their fields without fear”.
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