Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, has condemned the early Sunday attacks on Akpachi community in Ugboju District and Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, where suspected armed herders killed several innocent citizens.
In a statement issued on Sunday through his Chief Press Secretary, Ior Ikyereve, Dr. Ode described the assaults as “barbaric, inhuman, and unacceptable,” warning that the continued targeting of peace-loving residents poses a serious threat to peace, security, and development in the state.
The Deputy Governor expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Akpachi and Otukpo-Nobi communities, and the entire Benue South Senatorial District.
According to Dr. Ode, Governor Hyacinth Alia, who is currently out of the state on official assignment, has been fully briefed on the incident and has directed all heads of security agencies in Benue to immediately deploy to Otukpo to monitor the situation, contain further violence, and ensure a decisive response.
“The Benue State Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the protection of lives and property,” Ode stated. “We will continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous crimes are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.”
The Deputy Governor urged residents of Benue South to remain calm, peaceful, law-abiding, and vigilant. He stressed the importance of collaboration with security agencies through timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations.
He also cautioned against reprisals or taking the law into one’s own hands, assuring that government and security forces are fully committed to restoring normalcy in the affected areas.
Dr. Ode prayed for the peaceful repose of the victims’ souls and for God’s comfort, strength, and healing for the grieving families and communities.
