Suspected Herdsmen Kill 8, Injure 15 In Benue Attack As Alia Condemns Act

Eight residents of Saai community of Mbajir ward in Katsina-Ala local government area of Benue State have been reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen.

A government official who pleaded anonymity told our correspondent that the threats were there following the killing of the chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association Of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State chapter, Ardo Rabo Mohammed and one Yakubu Isa last week by criminals after security meeting along Okwudu Ogoli road in Otukpo local government area of the state.

A security source in the area told LEADERSHIP that the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, adding that 15 people were injured and in critical condition as they were evacuated to unknown hospital for urgent medical attention.

“The survivors of the attack called and told us that eight people were killed by suspected armed herdsmen. About fifteen were injured and were taken to hospital for medical attention,” the source said.

Meanwhile, Benue State governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said he received with heavy heart the reports of the attack on the Saai community of Mbajir ward in Katsina-Ala local government area.

Governor Alia confirmed that the unfortunate incident which occurred in the early hours of the , “first day of July and left scores dead while many others sustained various degree of injuries was allegedly carried out by terrorists masquerading as herdsmen.”

In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Alia described the tragedy as a “senseless assault on innocent citizens”.

According to Alia, “this attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hardworking farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms.

“These enemies of progress have chosen to disrupt the peace and food security of our state by targeting the moment when crops are developing and the hope for a bountiful harvest is high”.

The Governor extended his deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the tragedy, adding that, “my heart goes out to those who lost their loved ones as well as other victims currently receiving medical attention; we pray for their swift and total recovery. I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief”.

“I urge the people of Katsina-Ala and Benue State in general not to be discouraged because this administration remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting your lives and your livelihoods.

“We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We are building a Benue where peace and justice prevail, and this setback will only strengthen our resolve.

“The Governor issues a direct and immediate order to all relevant security agencies to: Deploy additional personnel to Saai and surrounding communities to prevent further incursions by terrorists and armed herdsmen. Launch a manhunt for the perpetrators of this heinous crime to ensure they are brought to face the wrath of the law.

“Ensure the safety of farmers as they tend to their crops, guaranteeing that no further disruption to agricultural activities occurs,” the statement reads.

Governor Alia, however, called on the citizens to remain calm but vigilant and report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security post, adding that, “we will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of our dear state”. the statement said.

Benue State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, did not answer calls for his reaction at the time of filing this report.