Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned two separate violent incidents in the state, ordering security agencies to immediately apprehend those responsible.
The governor’s statement, issued on Tuesday, follows the killing of two Igede youths and a separate attack on the Nyifon community.
According to security reports, the two Igede youths were travelling on a motorcycle along the Awajir-Oju road when they were attacked and killed.
In a separate event, the Nyifon community in Mbaikyongo Ward, Buruku Local Government Area, was attacked by youths from the Mbayaka community. This attack reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding related to a boat accident.
Alia described both incidents as “uncalled for and unfortunate”, emphasising that no individual or group has the right to invade another community or inflict harm under any circumstances.
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He has instructed security agencies to work with traditional rulers in the affected areas to thoroughly search the vicinity.
The governor has set a 48-hour deadline for the identification and arrest of the perpetrators, who he said must face the full force of the law.
Alia stressed his zero-tolerance policy for actions that threaten the state’s hard-won peace.
“Benue is beginning to experience a level of security stability, and I will not tolerate any attempt by anyone, regardless of their status or intentions, to instigate unrest or threaten the peace we are working hard to sustain,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all citizens.
He called on all communities in the state to remain peaceful and law-abiding while investigations are ongoing.
