Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has decried incessant killings in his State by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen, expressing his condolences to the families of the 11 people killed on Saturday by violent herdsmen, and the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, for the vicious attack.
The loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes is a painful reminder of the challenges his administration encounters on the journey for peace and security in the State, the Governor agonized, declaring that “this measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced.”
No fewer than 11 persons were confirmed killed on Saturday evening by armed herdsmen in a fresh attack in Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa communities of Kpav in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
The Katsina-Ala Chairman, Mr Justine Shaku confirmed the attacks and the consequent 11 deaths and seven seriously injured.
According to him, the incident happened between 7:30 and 9pm on Saturday, March 8.
He also disclosed that several houses were burnt while food supplies were destroyed.
The Chairman said: “There was no provocation before the attack. The bandits have been carrying out these killings over time. The council is holding a security meeting at the moment.
“Killings took place yesterday between 7 and 9pm. About 11 people were killed while 7 others sustained various degrees of injury and they are receiving treatment in some hospitals. I’m here with the house of representatives member representing this axis, Hon. Solomon Wombo. We are here with the locals, trying to settle bills, make arrangements for caskets for burial,” he said.
Governor Alia condemned “the barbaric action” in the strongest terms, while reassuring the people that those responsible would be brought to justice.
He said in response to the sad development, his government had already marshalled security forces to the afflicted localities, assuring that enhanced security steps are being implemented to track the aggressors and forestall further incidents.
“We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villages can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.
“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority. We recognize the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.
“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our willpower to protect our homes and loved ones.
“We appeal to everybody to remain wary and report any doubtful activities to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace,” the Governor said.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and called upon all residents to stand banded together against brutality and insecurity.
Meanwhile, the President General of Mdzough u Tiv World Wide, and Chairman of the Three Socio Cultural Organizations in Benue State, CP. Iorbee Ihagh (rtd) has condemned attacks in Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa in Shitile Kpav by suspected herdsmen militia.
Ihagh who spoke through his Press Secretary, Nicholas Ishom commended the Governor’s efforts towards bringing lasting peace in the affected communities and appealed that more security forces should be deployed to the affected areas to prevent future occurrence.
He also extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and prayed to God to rest their souls.
