By Emmanuel Kwada
The death toll from brutal attacks by suspected herdsmen in Benue State’s Ukum and Logo local government areas has climbed to 56, prompting Governor Hyacinth Alia to issue an urgent plea for federal assistance to curb the escalating insecurity.
Alia condemned the “heinous” attacks on defenseless residents and demanded stronger action from security agencies to halt the killings
The governor’s call came during a somber visit to the ravaged communities on Saturday, where he witnessed firsthand the devastation wrought by the violent assaults.
Speaking to journalists after touring the affected areas, Alia condemned the “heinous” attacks on defenseless residents and demanded stronger action from security agencies to halt the killings. “The Federal Government must step up to address this crisis,” he said, emphasizing the need for decisive measures to restore peace in the state.
During his visit, Alia engaged with community leaders and grieving residents, assuring them of the state’s commitment to tackling insecurity. He urged calm and cautioned against vigilante justice, even as anger simmers among locals. To bolster confidence, security has been reinforced in the Sankera axis, with emergency services and relief supplies dispatched to support the affected areas.
The violence in Benue echoes a broader wave of bloodshed in Nigeria’s North Central region. In neighboring Plateau State, over 137 people have been killed in the past two weeks in attacks on Bokkos and Bassa local government areas, underscoring the growing threat of marauding groups.
As Benue mourns, the governor’s appeal places pressure on the Federal Government to act swiftly to prevent further loss of life in a region gripped by fear and grief.
