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At least 11 people have been killed due to fresh attacks on multiple communities by suspected armed herders in the Katsina Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku confirmed that the attacks, took place on Friday, March 7 and Saturday, March 8.
He stated that 11 people had been killed and seven others had sustained serious injuries.
Shaku mentioned that the attackers are entered the Utange council ward on Friday, March 7 before moving to Kpav, specifically targeting Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa on Saturday, March 8 at night, causing widespread fear among the residents.
He revealed that as of Sunday, March 9 several people were still missing, and many others had fled the affected areas to escape the violence.
Shaku said, “Several houses were burnt and foodstuffs destroyed.
“There was no provocation but the bandits have been carrying out these kilings over time.”
The LGA chairman also mentioned that he and Solomon Wombo, the representative for Sankera Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, had a meeting with local residents on Sunday, March 9 and made arrangements to buy caskets and cover the hospital bills for the victims.
Also an anonymous eyewitness confirmed that the attacked started on Friday, March 7.
He said, “The killing started on Friday when some armed herders invaded some communities in Utange council ward and killed several people.
“The same attackers, Saturday night, moved to the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa and killed more people.
The state governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the attacks by the herders and assured the people that those responsible would be brought to justice.
This was revealed in a statement released on Sunday, March 9 by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo.
The statement read, “The governor expresses his profound condolences to the families of the casualties and the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, following the vicious attack by marauding armed herdsmen.”
The governor called the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes in the attack a sorrowful reminder of the challenges his administration has faced in its efforts to achieve peace and security in the state.
Adding that, “This measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced.”
He assured the public that his government had deployed security forces to the affected areas and pledged to strengthen security measures in order to apprehend the herders and prevent further incidents.
“We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villagers can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.
“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority.
“We recognise the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.
“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our willpower to protect our homes and loved ones.
“We appeal to everybody to remain wary and report any doubtful activity to the authorities.
“It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace,” the statement concluded.
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