Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has ordered additional security deployment and a manhunt for those responsible for the deadly attack on Saii community in Katsina-Ala LGA.
MAKURDI, BENUE STATE – July 2, 2026
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has directed security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Saii and surrounding communities in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area following the deadly attack that claimed several lives and left many others injured.
The governor also ordered security agencies to launch a manhunt for those responsible for the attack, insisting that the perpetrators must be apprehended and brought to justice.
The directive comes a day after armed attackers invaded Saii community in the early hours of Wednesday, killing several residents and injuring others. Prime Brief Media earlier reported the incident, noting that casualty figures were still being verified while security agencies commenced investigations.
Governor Alia urged security agencies to strengthen operations in the affected communities and ensure farmers can safely return to their farmlands without fear of further attacks.
He stressed that agricultural activities must not be disrupted by continued insecurity and called on security personnel to prevent further incursions into vulnerable communities.
The governor also appealed to residents to remain calm and urged local vigilante groups to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security post.
Condemning the attack, Governor Alia described it as a senseless, cowardly, and unacceptable act of violence against innocent citizens.
According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the attack was allegedly carried out by terrorists masquerading as herdsmen. Prime Brief Media has not independently verified this claim.
The governor vowed that his administration would not relent until those responsible were arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Governor Alia expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones in the attack and wished those receiving treatment a speedy recovery.
He assured residents of Katsina-Ala and other parts of the state that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and livelihoods.
"We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive our people away from their ancestral lands or weaken our resolve to build a peaceful and secure Benue," the governor said.
The latest directive comes amid growing security concerns in parts of Benue State, where repeated attacks have continued to threaten farming communities and displace residents.
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