By EMMANUEL ANTSWEN

Gov. Hyacinth Alia has condemned the deadly attacks on Akpachi Village and Otukpo-Nobi communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.

Alia in a statement issued on Sunday in Makurdi by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula, described the attacks as a barbaric assault on human life and the peace of the state.

According to the governor, the attackers invaded Akpachi Village in Akpa, Otukpo LGA between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. while residents were asleep.

He stated that scores of people were killed, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

Alia expressed sadness that the attacks occurred despite the government’s ongoing collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies to enthrone lasting peace across the state.

The governor said the killings were a deliberate attempt to undermine the progress and stability of Benue.

He sympathised with the people of Otukpo and the entire Benue South Senatorial District, assuring them that the government would not allow criminal elements to overrun their communities.

“My government stands firmly with you, and we will not allow our communities to be turned into killing fields,” he said.

Alia urged all security agencies in the state to collaborate with their counterparts in neighbouring states to intensify surveillance and patrols in the affected communities and border areas.

He also urged them to track the perpetrators arrest and prosecute them.

The governor appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible and timely information.

He stressed that security remained a collective responsibility and called on citizens to cooperate fully with the police and the military.

Alia also commiserated with families of the victims and wished those injured a speedy recovery. (NAN)

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