No fewer than nine people have been killed in a fresh attack in Benue State.
It was learnt that suspected terrorists invaded the Mbalom-Mbatsada-Agana community in Gwer Local Government Area of the state on Holy Saturday.
Confirming the attack to Channels Television on Sunday, the Chairman of Gwer, Timothy Adi, said one person was in a critical condition and receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Adi said the attackers stormed the village between 5 and 6 p.m. and carried out the heinous act.
The LG boss said he informed the state commissioner of police, Ifeanyi Enemari, who visited the area to ascertain the level of destruction and quickly deployed his men to maintain peace, adding that, “the area is peaceful at the moment.”
According to Adi, there was a security alert and advisory that the terrorists would attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the heinous attack, describing it as a barbaric act that is unacceptable.
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In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, said the incident was a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state.
He commiserated with the families of the victims, assuring them that the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.
The governor noted with concern the pattern of what appears to be calculated and selective attacks in parts of the state, stressing that such acts of terror, though increasingly hydra-headed in nature, will not be allowed to thrive.
He reiterates his unwavering resolve to confront and subdue all forms of criminality threatening the safety of Benue communities.
He urged security agencies to intensify operations to forestall further occurrences and bring lasting relief to affected communities.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by these attacks, Governor Alia assured the people of Benue State that his administration will not relent or leave anything to chance in its duty to safeguard lives and property.
The Benue leader assured that every necessary measure is being taken to strengthen security architecture, enhance intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore enduring peace.
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