Alia commends security operatives for prompt response to Ukum attacks, vows to protect Benue communities

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has commended security operatives for their prompt response to the attack on communities in Ukum Local Government Area of the state, describing their intervention as crucial to protecting lives and restoring confidence among residents.

The governor’s commendation followed an attack allegedly carried out by terrorists masquerading as herdsmen in the early hours of Sunday in parts of Mbazun Ward, Ukum LGA.

The attackers reportedly invaded Mbaterem in Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio and Ukpen communities, killing some residents and leaving several others injured.

In a statement made available to journalists by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia expressed deep concern over the renewed bloodshed and the persistent attacks on communities across the state.

The governor said his administration was doing everything within its capacity to curtail the killings and ensure that residents are adequately protected.

He commiserated with families who lost their loved ones in the latest attack, while praying for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries.

Alia also assured the people of Ukum and other parts of Benue State that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support to security agencies to enable them effectively discharge their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

The governor warned individuals and groups allegedly bent on frustrating the ongoing peace-building efforts in the state, insisting that the people of Benue would not be intimidated into abandoning their ancestral lands.

“Benue lands for Benue people. Anyone who thinks attacking us will intimidate us to leave the land is making a mistake,” the governor declared.

According to him, the protection of the people remains a fundamental responsibility of his administration, stressing that he took an oath to defend the lives and property of Benue residents.

“I took an oath to protect our people, and I will not relent. I must appreciate the fact that the Federal Government is advancing a lot of support for us to tackle these acts of terrorism,” Alia said.

The governor urged residents across the state to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to the appropriate security authorities.

“Like I always say, you must all remain vigilant and always ensure that you forward information on suspicious movements around you.

“This is the only way we can be able to effectively tackle these criminals,” he said.

Alia further charged security agencies to sustain their presence in strategic locations across the state and remain proactive in confronting criminal elements threatening the peace and security of communities.

He said the state government would continue to collaborate with security agencies and provide the necessary support to enable them respond effectively to security threats.

The governor assured Benue residents that his administration would not relent in its efforts to safeguard lives, protect communities and strengthen the peace process across the state.

The latest attack has once again heightened concerns over the security situation in parts of Benue, with the state government urging residents to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies in the fight against terrorism and other forms of criminality.