By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the deadly attacks on Yelewata town in Guma Local Government Area, where over 200 people were reportedly massacred by suspected armed militia herders over the weekend.
It was gathered that the assailants invaded Yelewata in an unprovoked assault, killing scores of farmers and leaving the community in mourning.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia described the attack as an “unnecessary bloodbath,” asserting that nothing justifies the taking of innocent lives.
During a visit to the scene of the incident on Sunday, the governor — represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Sam Ode — reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Benue citizens.
He said the state government is actively engaging with federal security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to enhance security interventions and devise lasting solutions to the recurring attacks.
“Governor Hyacinth Alia acknowledges and shares in your pain and grief caused by these attacks on your community by criminal elements suspected to be armed herdsmen. In the spirit of peace and unity, we urge religious, traditional, and political leaders across the state to sensitize and guide the youths under their influence against unlawful gatherings,” the statement added.
The governor disclosed that more tactical teams have been deployed to Benue by the Federal Government, with additional security reinforcements being arranged for vulnerable areas. He noted that Response Squad Teams are already operational across the state, while strategic community dialogues are ongoing to promote intelligence sharing and early warning systems.
“The state’s joint operations units are also being strengthened. The government will not relent in its responsibility to protect lives and property,” he stated, urging the public to use official channels to report any suspicious movements or activities to the appropriate security agencies
