9 killed in fresh attack on Benue community
At least nine people have been killed by armed invaders during an attack on Mbalom community of Gwer East Local Government Area in Benue State. Our correspondent reports that the incident happened on Easter eve while members of the community were said to be preparing for the Sunday celebration. Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Timothy […]
At least nine people have been killed by armed invaders during an attack on Mbalom community of Gwer East Local Government Area in Benue State.
Our correspondent reports that the incident happened on Easter eve while members of the community were said to be preparing for the Sunday celebration.
Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Timothy Adi, confirmed to journalists in Makurdi on Sunday, that nine people were killed and one person critically injured.
“Nine persons were killed, one other person was critical injured and now admitted at the hospital. The incident happened between 5pm and 6pm yesterday (on Saturday).
“The Commissioner of Police came here on Sunday and have deployed security to the area. The situation is calm now,” he said.
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attack on the people of Mbalom in the Gwer East LGA.
The governor, in a statement on Sunday by his spokesman, Tersoo Kula, described the attack as “barbaric, unacceptable act, and a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state.”
He expressed sympathy to families affected by the attack and assured them that the government stands firmly with them in the difficult time.
Alia noted with grave concern the pattern of what he said appeared to be calculated and selective attacks in parts of the state, stressing that such acts of terror, though increasingly hydra-headed in nature, would not be allowed to thrive.
He reiterated his resolve to confront and subdue all forms of criminality threatening the safety of Benue communities.
The governor also commended security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, for their swift response and ongoing efforts, noting their assurance that they are on the heels of the perpetrators and will ensure their arrest and prosecution.
He urged them to intensify operations to forestall further occurrences and bring lasting relief to the affected communities.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by the attacks, Alia assured the people of Benue State that his administration would not relent or leave anything to chance in its duty to safeguard lives and property.
He emphasised that every necessary measure was being taken to strengthen security architecture, enhance intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore enduring peace.
The governor further called on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding as he charged them to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that can aid ongoing operations.