Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has mandated security agencies to move into the communities and apprehend killers of two young men, Jonathan Ogah and Gabriel Ogodo who were reportedly killed by youths believed to be from Ulam Community in Gwer East local government area of the State.
LEADERSHIP reports that tension was rising between the Igede communities of Oju and Obi and neighbouring Gwer East and Konshisha LGAs following the alleged murder of the two young persons who were reportedly ambushed and murdered by their assailants.
Governor Alia who condemned the killings, also lamented a separate attack on Nyifon community in Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku LGA reportedly by youths from Mbayaka community in Kusuv, following a misunderstanding over a boat mishap.
Governor Alia, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, gave the security agencies 48-hour ultimatum to fish out the masterminds of the two incidents which has already heightened tensions in the affected communities.
Our correspondent gathered that one of the slain victims who got married last Saturday, was ambushed and murdered on Monday by the murderous youths on the Awajir-Oju Road while travelling on power bike with his friend from Oju on their way to Makurdi.
The murder of the duo has ignited tension between the neighbouring communities when the bodies were recovered and taken home, as the busy Aliade-Awajir-Oju Road which is under construction was deserted.
Governor Alia in the statement revealed that, “security reports indicate that the two slain youths were traveling from Oju on their motorcycle when they were attacked and killed in cold blood.”
The Governor described the two incidents as uncalled for and unfortunate, saying nobody or group has the right to invade another community or inflict harm under any circumstance.
He directed the security agencies to move into the communities, liaise with the traditional rulers of the areas concerned and ensure that they comb the vicinity thoroughly and within 48 hours, identify and apprehend the perpetrators to face the full wrath of the law.
“Now that Benue is beginning to experience a level of security stability, I will not tolerate any attempt by anyone regardless of their status or intentions to instigate unrest or threaten the peace we are working hard to sustain,” Alia said.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, and called on all communities across the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding while investigations continue.
