By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has condemned the killing of some residents of Tse Orbiam and Ahume communities in Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
Governor Alia also expressed his profound outrage and deep sorrow over the shooting of Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongu, by suspected Fulani killer herdsmen on the Makurdi-Naka road.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, said the heinous acts, carried out just meters away from a military checkpoint was a stark reminder of the pervasive violence and lawlessness that have plagued the dilapidated Makurdi-Naka road in recent time.
According to the statement, the governor praised Almighty God for the life of Fr. Atongu, who was in critical condition but eventually became stable.
The governor, according to the statement, said: “These barbaric criminals masquerading as herders whose actions reveal a blatant disregard for human life and the sanctity of our communities; their cowardice in attacking innocent individuals, especially, our innocent natives, will not be tolerated.”
The spokesman revealed how Gov. Alia reaffirmed his commitment to the safety and security of the people of Benue State, saying he was resolute with the traditional institution, which has recently mandated the immediate evacuation of criminal herders and their accomplice terrorists from Benue lands.
Kula said the governor has called on the security apparatus to intensify their efforts in safeguarding communities.
“it is imperative that these criminal elements and their accomplices are apprehended and dealt with swiftly and justly in accordance with the laws of our land.
“As we continue to mourn the loss of our brothers and sisters, our very peace-loving natives, let us unite in our resolve to eradicate the scourge of violence and ensure that our communities are safe havens for all”.
The governor, according to the statement, directed security agencies to go after the terrorists and ensure the kidnapped persons who were with Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongu were rescued unhurt.
He called on every citizen to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
