- Safiu Kehinde
No fewer than nine people have been confirmed dead with several others injured as gunmen attacked Mbalom community in Gwer-East Local Government Area of Benue state.
The attack reportedly occurred on Saturday evening.
Reacting to the incident in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the Benue state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the brutal attack.
Alia described the killings as “barbaric and unacceptable, and a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state”.
He expressed sympathy to affected families, assuring them of government support during “this difficult and painful period”.
The governor raised concerns over what he termed “a pattern of calculated and selective attacks” in parts of the state.
He said such acts of terror, “though increasingly hydra-headed, will not be allowed to thrive in Benue”.
Alia reiterated his administration’s resolve to tackle and eliminate all forms of criminality threatening communities across the state.
He commended security agencies, particularly the police, for their prompt response and ongoing efforts.
The governor assured residents that security forces are “on the heels of the perpetrators” and will ensure their arrest and prosecution.
He urged operatives to intensify efforts to forestall further attacks and restore lasting peace in affected communities.
Alia affirmed that his administration remains “fully committed to protecting lives and property, leaving no stone unturned in safeguarding citizens”.
He said measures were being strengthened to improve intelligence gathering and enhance collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
The governor urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, and to support security agencies with credible information.
He maintained that his government “will not waver in its pursuit of peace, justice and security for all”.