The death toll from recent attacks in Benue State has climbed to 56, prompting Governor Hyacinth Alia to call on the Federal Government to urgently address the worsening security situation.
Governor Alia made the appeal on Saturday during a visit to communities in Ukum and Logo local government areas—both affected by brutal assaults carried out by suspected herdsmen.
The governor’s visit aimed to assess the level of destruction and provide support to the victims.
Speaking to journalists after touring the affected areas, Alia condemned the killings, describing them as barbaric and unacceptable.
“These are violent attacks on defenseless people,” he said.
“Security agencies must rise to the occasion and nip these killings in the bud.”
During the visit, the governor met with local leaders and residents, assuring them that his administration is committed to tackling the insecurity head-on and improving the safety of all communities.
He urged the people to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that retaliation or self-help would only worsen the situation.
“We understand the pain, but I urge you all to resist the will to resort to self-help,” the governor added.
In response to the attacks, security forces have been deployed to the troubled Sankera axis to restore peace and build public confidence.
Emergency services and relief materials have also been provided to the affected areas in both Ukum and Logo LGAs.
Meanwhile, in Plateau State, which lies in the same North Central geopolitical zone, more than 100 people have reportedly been killed in the past two weeks following renewed violence in Bokkos and Bassa local government areas.
