Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has vowed to ensure that those responsible for the deadly attack on Anwase community in Kwande Local Government Area will face the full wrath of the law.
The governor expressed his strong condemnation of the attack, which occurred on December 25th, leaving several innocent residents dead and others injured.
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In a statement issued on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia described the assault as unprovoked and devastating. “The loss of innocent lives in Anwase is deeply heartbreaking,” he said. “Such senseless violence has no place in our society, and those responsible must be brought to justice.”
Governor Calls for Increased Security Measures in Vulnerable Areas
Alia emphasized that despite the ongoing efforts of his administration to ensure the safety and security of all Benue residents, armed herders have continued to carry out heinous attacks on vulnerable communities. He stressed that the government’s commitment to tackling these security challenges would not waver.
“The perpetrators may think they are beyond reach, but they will be held accountable,” the governor asserted. “We will use every lawful means to ensure that they are punished for this atrocity. It’s only a matter of time before they are apprehended.”
Governor Alia also called on security agencies to step up surveillance in all vulnerable areas, especially during the holiday period. “We cannot afford to leave any community unguarded. I urge the security forces to be more vigilant and proactive in safeguarding our people,” he said.
In his message of condolences, the governor expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims. “I share in the grief of those who have lost their loved ones in this tragic attack,” Alia said. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, and I assure the people of Benue that justice will be served.”
Alia’s firm stance on securing justice for the victims of the Anwase attack follows a series of similar violent incidents across the state. The government has been under increasing pressure to address the growing security concerns, particularly those stemming from clashes between farmers and armed herders.
While the governor has promised swift action, he reiterated that the safety of every Benue citizen remains his administration’s top priority. “The government will continue to prioritize the protection of our people, and we will not relent until peace is restored to every part of the state,” he concluded.
