ALIA ORDERS RESCUE OF ABDUCTED GIRL AFTER DEADLY HERDER ATTACK IN BENUE COMMUNITY
Read Time:1 Minute, 44 Second
By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has directed security operatives deployed to Akpete/Asaba community in Apa Local Government Area to rescue a little girl abducted by suspected armed herders and locate other persons reported missing after a deadly attack on farmers.
The communities were reportedly invaded on Friday when the suspected herders attacked farmers working on cashew farms.
While residents told journalists that at least 15 people were killed in the assault, the Nigeria Police Force earlier confirmed that six bodies had been recovered.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kula Terso, Alia described the attack on farmers from Ojantelle, Asaba, and Akpetewho had gone to harvest cashew seeds as a “terrorist act” and a painful reminder of the security challenges facing farming communities in the state.
“How can you come in and attack a people who were simply pursuing their legitimate means of livelihood? My people are hardworking farmers and do not deserve such a cruel fate,” the governor said.
“I condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms. The killing of innocent Benue citizens going about their daily farm work is an assault on our shared humanity and will not be tolerated,” he added.
Alia expressed sympathy with the affected communities and families of the victims, assuring them that the state government stands firmly with them.
He disclosed that he had directed security agencies to intensify operations in the area to track down the perpetrators, rescue the abducted girl, and locate other missing persons.
“Do not lose hope. My administration is working closely with security agencies and community leaders to strengthen protection around vulnerable areas,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, pledging that those responsible for the attack would be brought to justice.
“We will not waver until our people are safe and can return to their fields without fear,” Alia said, while praying for the repose of the souls of the victims and strength for their families.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0