* As Gov Alia condemns killing
From Joseph Uchenna, Makurdi
At least 16 persons have been reportedly killed in Jato-Aka, Mbachon, Tse-yough in Yaav Council Ward of Kwande local government area of Benue State and many others missing in a fresh attack in the area.
This is just as the State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned in strong terms the brutal killings in Tyungu Jam and Mbaav communities in Yaav and Mbadura Council wards of Kwande Local Government Area, which he said left 12 innocent people dead and several others injured.
An eye witness said the attack occured on Thursday alleging that was carried out by suspected herdsmen
Said he: “There is currently a serious and heartbreaking attack being carried out by armed herdsmen on the people of Mbaav in Mbadura Council Ward, Turan, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
“Many innocent lives have already been lost. Since the attack began this morning (referring to Thursday), the community has not received any form of security presence or intervention and the situation is extremely dire and terrifying for our people.
“Men, women, children, and the elderly are fleeing in different directions for safety. Mbaav village is a community near Jato Aka market. Families are scattered, homes are under threat, and the entire community is in panic and distress.
“The people of Turan are in desperate need of urgent help and immediate security intervention. Authorities and relevant security agencies must act now before more innocent lives are lost.
“The people of Turan cannot continue to face this tragedy alone, we need protection, we need help now.”
They gave the names of deceased as Shagba Tyokase, Shagba Terease, Liambee Yohane, Tordue Dooshima, Tordue Doove, Liamkpur Aondosoo, Akule John, Adezamber Gyuse, Terundu Tyozuur, and one whose identity was yet to acertained.
While those injured and are said to be currently receiving treatment as Msughaondo Terfa, Nanen Terfa, Aondongu Terfa, Ahembe Shilave, Nguavese Tavershima, Terfa Doosuur.
According to the locals, a search is ongoing in the bush to recover some missing persons
“This is outside the first six (6) people that were killed in the morning attacks in Mbaav Community Of Mbadura Council Ward by the fulani herdmen even with the presence of over 300 army personnel in the land”, they lamented.
While condemning the attack in a statement signed by the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication Mr Solomon Iorpev, Governor Alia described the attack as “barbaric, senseless, and unacceptable”.
He expressed deep sorrow and outrage at the loss of precious lives and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.
The Governor who emphasized that every life matters and that the loss of even one life is too many, assured the people of Kwande and Benue State that his administration will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those responsible for the killings are held accountable.
He directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.
Governor Alia who said he shared the concerns and anguish of the people of Kwande, assured them that his administration is committed to ensuring the security and safety of all citizens and he will not be deterred by resistance from those opposed to peace.
The Governor acknowledged the recent deployment of over 400 security personnel to Jato Aka and other parts of Kwande and noted that the recent attacks indicate that more needs to be done.
He said he understands the pain and frustration of the people and shared their desire for peace and security and promised not to rest until peace is achieved.
Governor Alia appealed to the people of Kwande to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as they work to restore peace to the area.
He said the complexities of insecurity are challenging but not insurmountable, and he will stop at nothing to ensure that absolute peace returns to the state in general and to Kwande in particular.
As at the time of filling this report, the Police is yet to confirm the incident as they feign lack of knowledge.
