Benue Governor moves to secure Katsina-Ala after deadly community invasion

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has ordered the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area following a deadly attack that reportedly claimed several lives in the early hours of Wednesday.

The governor expressed profound shock and sadness over the incident, which reportedly left scores of people dead and many others with varying degrees of injuries.

According to reports, the attackers, suspected to be terrorists masquerading as herders, invaded the community in the early hours of July 1, unleashing violence on residents and disrupting farming activities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Makurdi by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia described the attack as a senseless, cowardly and unacceptable assault on innocent citizens.

He lamented that the attack came at a critical period when farmers had returned to their ancestral lands to cultivate their farms, warning that the perpetrators were deliberately targeting the state’s agricultural activities and food security.

“This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hardworking farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms,” the governor said.

“These enemies of progress have chosen to disrupt the peace and food security of our state by targeting the moment when crops are developing and the hope for a bountiful harvest is high.”

Governor Alia extended his heartfelt condolences to families who lost their loved ones and sympathised with those receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.

“My heart goes out to those who lost their loved ones as well as other victims currently receiving medical attention. We pray for their swift and total recovery. I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief,” he stated.

The governor assured residents of Katsina-Ala and Benue State that his administration remained committed to safeguarding lives and property despite the renewed security challenges.

“I urge the people of Katsina-Ala and Benue State in general not to be discouraged because this administration remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting your lives and your livelihoods.

“We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We are building a Benue where peace and justice prevail, and this setback will only strengthen our resolve,” he added.

As part of immediate measures to restore peace, Governor Alia directed all relevant security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Saai and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks.

He also ordered security operatives to launch an intensive manhunt for those responsible for the killings and ensure they are apprehended and prosecuted.

The governor further instructed security agencies to provide adequate protection for farmers to enable them to continue farming activities without fear or intimidation.

He appealed to residents to remain calm but vigilant, urging them to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.

“We will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of our dear state,” the governor assured.

The latest attack has heightened concerns over the recurring insecurity in parts of Benue State, where several communities have continued to suffer violent attacks that have claimed many lives and displaced residents.