Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state wept yesterday as he narrated the continued massacre of his people by bandits and armed herdsmen ravaging various communities.
The governor for the umpteenth time called on federal government to intervene and save his people from further annihilation.
About 50 persons were sent to their early graves in the renewed attacks.
An obviously depressed Alia said ” 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.
“These killings are unacceptable, and as your Governor, I will not sit idle while our communities are turned into killing fields.
“Following an emergency security council meeting this morning at Government House, I have ordered joint security forces to immediately move into the affected areas and beyond. Their mission is clear: stop the violence, sweep the communities, and restore peace.
“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.
“More updates will follow as our security teams are on the ground. I urge all citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives as they carry out their duty”.
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