Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the deadly attack on Saai community in Katsina-Ala LGA, ordered additional security deployment and directed a manhunt for the perpetrators.
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| Governor Alia orders security deployment after deadly Saai attack | Prime Brief Media |
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the deadly attack on Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, describing the incident as a "senseless assault on innocent citizens" and directing security agencies to immediately reinforce the affected area.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 1, reportedly claimed the lives of several residents while leaving many others with varying degrees of injuries. According to a statement issued by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the attackers were alleged to be terrorists masquerading as herdsmen.
Governor Alia expressed deep sorrow over the incident, saying the attack came at a critical period when many farmers had returned to their ancestral communities to cultivate their lands following improvements in security across parts of the state.
The governor said the assault was not only an attack on innocent lives but also an attempt to undermine food production and economic stability in Benue, widely regarded as Nigeria's food basket.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Alia described the killings as an ugly and cowardly act that would not deter his administration from pursuing lasting peace across the state.
"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," the governor said.
"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 condolences to families who lost loved ones during the attack and wished those receiving treatment a speedy recovery.
"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," he added.
Governor Alia directed all relevant security agencies to take immediate action to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among residents of the affected communities.
Among the directives issued were the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to Saai and neighbouring communities to prevent fresh incursions by armed groups.
He also ordered security agencies to launch a comprehensive manhunt for those responsible for the attack and ensure that all perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted.
Recognising the importance of agriculture to the state's economy, the governor further instructed security agencies to provide adequate protection for farmers currently cultivating their fields to prevent disruptions to farming activities during the planting season.
The directives form part of broader efforts by the Benue State Government to strengthen security across vulnerable communities experiencing recurrent attacks.
While assuring residents that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property, Governor Alia appealed to citizens not to allow fear to force them away from their communities.
"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," he said.
"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 also called on residents to remain calm but vigilant by reporting suspicious movements and activities to the nearest security formation.
The latest attack has once again drawn attention to persistent security challenges affecting parts of Benue State despite ongoing military and security operations.
Communities in Katsina-Ala and surrounding local government areas have experienced repeated attacks in recent years, leading to loss of lives, displacement of residents and disruptions to farming activities.
The timing of the latest incident, during the peak of the farming season, has heightened concerns over its potential impact on food production and rural livelihoods.
As of the time of publication, security agencies had not released an independent statement providing casualty figures or operational details regarding the attack.
Prime Brief Media could not independently verify the number of those killed or injured. Investigations are expected to continue as security personnel intensify operations in the area.
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