By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the recent wave of deadly attacks by suspected armed herders that left dozens dead in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas.
Calling the assaults a “deliberate and senseless act of terror,” the governor convened an emergency security council meeting in Makurdi and ordered the immediate deployment of joint security forces to restore peace in the affected communities.
“We will not fold our arms while our people are slaughtered,” Governor Alia declared. “These killings are attacks on the peace, dignity, and future of Benue State.”
He visited displaced residents, pledged relief efforts, and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. The violence, rooted in long-standing farmer-herder conflicts, has continued despite the 2017 anti-open grazing law, whose enforcement remains weak.
Benue, Nigeria’s “Food Basket,” has been severely impacted by these clashes, with agricultural output and rural stability in jeopardy.
Governor Alia renewed calls for federal support, stronger law enforcement, and collaboration with local leaders to prevent reprisal attacks. “This is not just a Benue problem,” he said. “It is a Nigerian tragedy.”
A broader state response plan—including humanitarian relief, community rebuilding, and long-term security measures—is expected soon.
