Benue State is reeling after deadly attacks swept through two local government areas, leaving dozens dead. Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has responded with urgency, dispatching joint security forces to calm the violence and restore order in Apa and Gwer West.
Twelve people were murdered in Apa. Eleven more in Gwer West. Governor Alia described the assaults as “brutal and unprovoked attacks.”
In a strong message released Monday night, the governor condemned the violence and made it clear he would not allow the state to become a war zone.
“These killings are unacceptable, and as your Governor, I will not sit idle while our communities are turned into killing fields,” he said.
The deployment order came after an emergency security council meeting at the Government House in Makurdi. Troops were told to act fast: “stop the violence, sweep the communities, and restore peace.”
Governor Alia extended his condolences to the affected families and displaced residents, pledging swift action and full government support.
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“This government stands firmly with every grieving family and displaced resident. We are mobilizing every available resource to protect lives and bring those responsible for these heinous acts to justice,” he said.
He also called on residents to stay alert and work closely with security teams now on the ground. More updates, he promised, would follow as operations continue.
“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the loss of 23 innocent lives; 12 in Apa and 11 in Gwer West Local Government Areas, due to brutal and unprovoked attacks,” the governor said.
His message is clear, Benue won’t fold under pressure. The state will fight back with resolve and with force.