Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the deadly attacks on Akpachi Village and the Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, describing the killings as a brutal assault on innocent lives and a threat to the state’s peace.
The governor’s reaction followed the early Sunday morning invasion by suspected armed herdsmen, who reportedly stormed Akpachi Village in Akpa between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. while residents were asleep.
The assailants allegedly killed several people and left many others with varying degrees of injuries.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia said the attacks represented both a serious security breach and an inhumane act against the people of Benue.
He noted that the violence came despite ongoing efforts by his administration, traditional rulers and security agencies to promote lasting peace across the state.
“These acts of mindless bloodshed are a direct attempt to sabotage the progress of our state.”
Governor Alia expressed sympathy with the people of Otukpo and the entire Benue South Senatorial District, assuring residents that the government would not allow criminals to force communities into fear.
“Your lives are precious, and I can assure you that your ancestral lands will not be surrendered to fear.”
He added that although Benue people have continued to exercise restraint in the face of repeated attacks, such patience should never be interpreted as weakness.
“My government stands firmly with you, and we will not allow our communities to be turned into killing fields.”
The governor
