15 killed in herders’ renewed attack in Benue

No fewer than 15 people were reportedly killed in renewed attacks on several communities by suspected armed herders in Katsina Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attackers were reported to have invaded the Utange council ward on Friday and proceeded to Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa Saturday night and unleashed terror on the residents.

Several people were reported missing as of Sunday while many others were said to have fled the troubled communities.

A source in the council who did not want to be mentioned told our correspondent on the phone on Sunday the “the killing started on Friday when some armed herders invaded some communities in Utange council ward and killed several people.

“The same attackers, Saturday night, moved to the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa and killed more people.

Confirming the attacks on Sunday, the Chairman, Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, said 11 people were killed and seven others seriously injured.

He added, “Several houses were burnt and foodstuffs destroyed,” adding, “there was no provocation but the bandits have been carrying out these kilings over time.

The LG chairman said he and the member representing Sankera Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Solomon Wombo, were holding a meeting as of the time of the phone call Sunday evening with the locals, making arrangements to purchase caskets and also settling hospital bills for the victims.

Meanwhile, the state governor,  Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attacks and reassured the people of the state that those responsible would be made to face justice.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, said, “The governor expresses his profound condolences to the families of the casualties and the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, following the vicious attack by marauding armed herdsmen.”

He described the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes in the attack as a painful reminder of the challenges his administration encountered in the journey for peace and security in the state.

He said, “This measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced.”

The governor assured the people that his government had already marshalled security forces to the afflicted localities and promised to enhance security to track the aggressors and forestall further incidents.

“We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villagers can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.

“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority. We recognise the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.

“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our willpower to protect our homes and loved ones.

“We appeal to everybody to remain wary and report any doubtful activity to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace,” the statement read in parts.

Also condemning the attack, the President General, Mdzough U. Tiv World Wide, and Chairman of the three socio-cultural organisations in Benue State, Chief CP. Iorbee Ihagh, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to deploy more security forces to the affected areas to prevent future occurrences.

Efforts to get the state police command spokesperson, Catherine Anene, were not successful as her phone rang out but she did not pick up the calls.