By Citizenship Daily
11 persons have been reportedly killed while 7 others are seriously injured as armed bandits at the weekend attacked community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, Katsina-Ala Local Government area of Benue State.
Chairman of the council, Justine Shaku who disclosed this to our correspondent on phone on Sunday said the incident occurred between 7:30 and 8 pm on Saturday.
Shaku also said several houses were burnt and foodstuffs destroyed.
He said: “there was no provocation, the bandits have been carrying out these kilings over time.
“As I speak with you, we are holding security meeting”.
It was learnt that the House of Representatives member for Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Solomon Wombo was in a meeting with the locals.
He was said to have made arrangements to purchase caskets for the deceased and also settle hospital bills for the victims.
While condemning the killings in a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia said that the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes was a painful reminder of the challenges his administration encounters in the journey for peace and security in the state.
He said, “this measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced”.
“The Governor condemns this barbaric act in the strongest terms and reassures the people of the State that those responsible will be brought to justice”.
Alia stated that in response to this misfortune, his government has already marshaled security forces to the affected localities, stating that further security steps are being implemented to track the aggressors and forestall further incidents.
“We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villagers can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.
“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority. We recognize the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.
“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our will power to protect our homes and loved ones.
“We appeal to everybody to remain alert and report any doubtful activities to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace”, the Governor said.
