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The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned an attack that left nine people dead in Gwer Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor described the incident as barbaric and unacceptable, noting that it poses a serious threat to the state’s peace and security.
“Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia strongly condemns the heinous attack carried out by suspected armed herdsmen on the peace-loving people of Mbalom in the Gwer-East Local Government Area,” the statement read.
“The Governor describes the barbaric act as unacceptable, and a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state. He expresses deep sympathy to families affected by the attack and assures them that the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.”
Alia expressed concern over what he described as a pattern of calculated and selective attacks in parts of the state, stressing that such acts of violence, though increasingly complex, would not be allowed to persist.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling criminality and ensuring the safety of communities across the state.
The governor also commended the Nigeria Police Force for their prompt response and ongoing efforts, noting assurances that those responsible would be apprehended and prosecuted.
He urged security agencies to intensify operations to prevent further attacks and restore lasting peace to affected communities.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Gwer LGA, Timothy Adi, said the attackers invaded the Mbalom-Mbatsada-Agana community between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., carrying out the assault.
He disclosed that one person remains in critical condition and is receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Adi added that he alerted the state Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Enemari, who visited the area and deployed officers to maintain order.
According to him, although there had been prior security warnings of a possible attack, the assailants still struck on Holy Saturday. He, however, noted that calm has since been restored to the area.
