Gunmen Kill 16 in Benue Community

July 01 () — ‎No fewer than sixteen residents in the Sai community in Katsina Ala Local Government Area of Benue State were gruesomely killed in the early hours of Wednesday by suspected terrorist herdsman, while others sustained injuries.

An eye witness account had it that the attackers invaded the community unprovoked even when residents were asleep.

In a swift reaction, Governor Hyacinth Alia described the tragedy as a senseless assault on innocent citizens

He stated the attack is an ugly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms.

“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,” the governor declared.

In a statement in Makurdi, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula, said the governor extended his deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the tragedy.

“I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief. 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”, it added.

“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”.

The governor issued an order to all relevant security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Saai and the surrounding communities to prevent further incursions by terrorists and armed herdsmen.

He also directed a launch a manhunt for the perpetrators of the heinous crime to ensure they are brought to face the wrath of the law, ensuring the safety of farmers as they tend to their crops, and guaranteeing that no further disruption to agricultural activities occurs.

He called on the citizens to remain calm but vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security post, assuring that, the government will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of our dear state.

At the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command has yet to confirm the incident.