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Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the deadly attacks on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, describing the assault as “barbaric and inhuman” and ordering security agencies to pursue the perpetrators.
At least 18 people were killed in the attacks on Akpachi Village and the Otukpo-Nobi community in the early hours of Sunday, according to local officials.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Governor Alia expressed sadness over the attacks, which he said occurred between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. while residents were asleep.
“He describes the attacks as not only a breach of peace, but also a barbaric and inhuman assault on the sanctity of life and the collective soul of the people of Benue State,” the statement by Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula read.
The governor said he was particularly pained that the attacks occurred at a time when the state government had been working closely with traditional rulers and security agencies to foster lasting peace.
“These acts of mindless bloodshed are a direct attempt to sabotage the progress of our state,” Alia said.
He assured the people of Otukpo and the entire Benue South Senatorial District that their lives were precious and their ancestral lands would not be surrendered to fear.
“My government stands firmly with you, and we will not allow our communities to be turned into killing fields,” he declared.
Alia also issued a directive to all security agencies in the state to liaise with their counterparts in neighbouring states and intensify surveillance and patrols across affected communities and border areas.
He also directed the security agencies to relentlessly pursue the perpetrators, ensure their arrest and prosecution, and deploy additional personnel and resources to protect vulnerable communities.
The governor called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by providing timely and credible intelligence.
“We urge every citizen to cooperate with the police and military by providing timely and credible intelligence. Security is a collective responsibility, and your information is a vital tool in our defence.”
GOVERNOR ALIA CONDEMNS DEADLY ATTACKS IN OTUKPO, ORDERS SECURITY AGENCIES TO HUNT DOWN PERPETRATORS
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Governor Hyacinth Alia expresses profound sadness and the strongest condemnation following the early morning attacks by suspected armed herdsmen on Akpachi… pic.twitter.com/EyoibkVbCc
— Benue State Government (@benuestategovt) July 13, 2026
