Makurdi, Benue State – In the wake of fresh violent attacks allegedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly cautioned local communities against resorting to self-help or vigilante justice. Speaking to journalists after the Good Friday Mass held at the Holy Ghost Parish in Makurdi, Governor Alia confirmed the tragic loss of five lives in Ukum Local Government Area. He also addressed another deadly incident in the Sankera axis, where police authorities have reported that 17 people were killed during coordinated attacks. Strategic Response Underway Governor Alia reassured the public that the Benue State Government, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, is actively working on a comprehensive and strategic security response to curb the ongoing violence across the region. “We’re developing a security plan to permanently end these tragic incidents. The people must not take the law into their own hands. We must maintain order and work with the government to restore peace,” – Governor Alia stated. As a former Catholic priest, Governor Alia condemned the brutal killings and emphasized the importance of community vigilance. He also encouraged citizens to provide timely intelligence to law enforcement agencies, citing the Ukum response as a positive example where quick action helped reduce further casualties. Police Confirm Multiple Fatalities In an official statement, Sewuese Anene, the Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Police Command, disclosed that suspected militia groups invaded the Sankera region, engaging security forces in Gbagir, where five people were killed. She further revealed that during the ongoing operation in Gbagir, another faction of the attackers launched a simultaneous assault on Logo Local Government Area, claiming 12 additional lives. This brings the total number of confirmed deaths to 17. Learn more about Nigeria’s complex herdsmen-farmer conflicts from this BBC article. Call for National Support and Vigilance Governor Alia’s statement is part of broader efforts to prevent communal retaliation, maintain civil order, and seek long-term federal support. His remarks highlight a critical national issue—the recurring clashes between farmers and herders that have plagued Nigeria’s Middle Belt region for years. For related news on regional security issues, visit our internal article on Nigeria’s National Security Measures in 2025 The Benue State Government’s stern stance against self-help underscores the importance of lawful cooperation, intelligence sharing, and national collaboration in resolving these recurring attacks. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, trust in the process, and work hand-in-hand with authorities to ensure the safety of all communities. BUY ANYTHING ON KONGA BUY NOW READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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. Click here to read more about security challenges in Nigeria READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
