Benue Community Attack: Governor Alia Condemns Assault, Pledges Justice
At least 11 people lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries after suspected armed herdsmen launched a violent attack on the Mbagena community in Mchihe Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
Attack on Mbagena Community Leaves Devastation
Eyewitness reports indicate that the armed group not only killed residents but also set houses ablaze and looted food barns, leaving the village in turmoil.
A local resident recounted that the assailants initially struck on Friday night but returned on Saturday evening around 7 p.m. in greater numbers, wreaking havoc on the community.
“They arrived in large numbers, shooting indiscriminately. Many people were killed, houses were torched, and food supplies were destroyed,” the source disclosed.
By Sunday morning, 11 bodies had been recovered, while multiple residents were still unaccounted for. The injured victims are currently receiving medical care in Katsina-Ala Town.
Local Authorities Condemn the Attack
The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Mr. Justin Shaku, confirmed the attack, describing it as an unjustified act of violence.
“The attack happened between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday. Sadly, 11 individuals lost their lives, while seven others with severe injuries are being treated in undisclosed hospitals,” he stated.
Mr. Shaku, alongside a House of Representatives member representing the Sankera axis, visited the affected community to assist in funeral arrangements and support bereaved families.
Mzough U Tiv (MUT) Worldwide President General, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, strongly denounced the assault and urged security agencies to deploy personnel to prevent further bloodshed in the area.
Governor Alia Assures Justice, Calls for Vigilance
Reacting to the tragic event, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the affected families. He also condemned the senseless killings and destruction of property.
“This level of brutality is unacceptable and will not go unpunished,” Governor Alia asserted.
He reassured the public that law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the incident, and perpetrators will be brought to justice. Security forces have already been deployed to restore peace in the region.
“We are coordinating closely with local security forces and community leaders to ensure our citizens live without fear of such attacks,” he added.
Governor Alia also urged residents to remain watchful and promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to securing lives and property.
“Together, we will confront these challenges and reinforce our commitment to a safer Benue,” he emphasized.
Security Agencies Yet to Issue Official Statement
As of the time of reporting, efforts to obtain an official statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful.
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