Alia Condemns Deadly Benue Attack, Orders Massive Security Reinforcement

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the deadly attack on Saai Community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, describing it as a senseless and cowardly assault on innocent residents.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor said the attack occurred in the early hours of July 1, leaving scores of people dead and many others with varying degrees of injuries.

Alia described the incident as a calculated attempt to undermine the peace and stability being restored across the state, particularly at a time when many displaced farmers have returned to their ancestral communities to resume farming activities.

According to him, the attackers deliberately struck when farmers were nurturing their crops, with the apparent intention of disrupting agricultural activities and threatening the state's food security.

"This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hard-working farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms.

"These enemies of progress have chosen to disrupt the peace and food security of our state by targeting the moment when crops are developing, and the hope for a bountiful harvest is high," the governor said.

Governor Alia extended his condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attack and sympathised with those receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the incident.

"My heart goes out to those who lost their loved ones as well as other victims currently receiving medical attention. We pray for their swift and total recovery. I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief," he stated.

The governor assured residents of Katsina-Ala and other parts of Benue that his administration remains firmly committed to safeguarding lives and property, urging communities not to abandon their homes despite the renewed violence.

He said the government would not allow criminal elements to force residents away from their ancestral lands or weaken their resolve.

"I urge the people of Katsina-Ala and Benue State in general not to be discouraged because this administration remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting your lives and your livelihoods.

"We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We are building a Benue where peace and justice prevail, and this setback will only strengthen our resolve," he added.

As part of immediate measures, Governor Alia directed security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Saai Community and neighbouring areas to forestall further attacks.

He also ordered security operatives to launch an intensive manhunt for those responsible for the killings and ensure they are arrested and prosecuted, while strengthening protection for farmers carrying out agricultural activities across affected communities.

The governor further appealed to residents to remain calm but vigilant, urging them to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies.

He reaffirmed his administration's determination to restore lasting peace across Benue State, insisting that efforts to defeat criminal elements and secure communities would continue without compromise.