Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State on Friday condemned a deadly attack on two remote communities in Kwande Local Government Area that killed at least 12 people and wounded others, pledging intensified security measures to combat persistent violence in the region.
The assault struck Tyungu Jam and Mbaav in the Yaav and Mbadura council wards on Thursday, according to a statement by the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication Solomon Iorpev.
Governor Alia describe the killings “barbaric, senseless and unacceptable,” expressing “deep sorrow and outrage” over the deaths.
“Every life matters, and the loss of even one life is too many,” Governor Alia said.
NewsQuest reports that Kwande, has seen recurring clashes involving herder-farmer disputes and armed groups, with several innocent people killed.
According to Iorpev, Governor Alia has directed security agencies to redouble efforts to capture the perpetrators and prevent further violence, assuring residents that his administration would “leave no stone unturned” in holding those responsible accountable.
The Governor acknowledged recent deployments of more than 400 security personnel to Jato Aka and other parts of Kwande but said the latest attack showed more was needed.
“I understand the pain and frustration of the people,” he added, promising not to rest until peace returns to Kwande and Benue State.
Governor Alia urged calm and cooperation with authorities amid what he described as “complexities of insecurity” that were “challenging but not insurmountable.”
