Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has ordered security agencies to launch a manhunt for those responsible for the deadly attack on Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, following the killing of scores of residents by suspected armed assailants.
The governor also directed the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to Saai and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks and ensure residents, particularly farmers, can return to their normal activities without fear.
The directive was issued on Wednesday in a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, following the attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday and left many residents dead while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Alia described the attackers as terrorists masquerading as herdsmen, accusing them of attempting to destabilise the state and disrupt farming activities at a time many residents had returned to their ancestral communities to cultivate their land.
He condemned the attack as senseless, cowardly and unacceptable, expressing condolences to families who lost loved ones and wishing those injured a speedy recovery.
The governor assured residents that the state government stands in solidarity with the affected community and remains committed to protecting lives and property across Benue State.
He directed all relevant security agencies to intensify operations in the area, track down those responsible for the attack and strengthen security around farming communities to ensure agricultural activities continue without further disruption.
Alia also urged residents of Katsina-Ala and other parts of the state to remain calm but vigilant, encouraging them to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.
He assured citizens that his administration would continue working with security agencies and other stakeholders until lasting peace is restored across the state.