By EMMANUEL ANTSWEN

Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue has called on security agencies to carry out coordinated operations to dismantle terrorist camps in forested areas across the state.

The governor made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Tersoo Kula, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.

Alia’s directive was in reaction to recent deadly attacks on some communities.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that there were attacks in Apa and Otukpo local government areas, specifically in Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi, Adija, and Upu villages, which resulted in multiple fatalities.

He urged security operatives to intensify surveillance and operations, with particular focus on Apa, Otukpo, and Gwer-West local government areas, as well as other vulnerable parts of the state.

Alia described the renewed wave of violence in the state as unacceptable and increasingly complex.

The governor regretted that criminal elements have been exploiting forested areas as operational bases to launch attacks on innocent communities.

“The criminal elements must be flushed out without delay,” he said.

He stressed the need for a decisive and sustained response, reaffirming that the protection of lives and property remained the foremost responsibility of his administration.

“I have therefore mandated a sustained, intelligence-driven security crackdown aimed at neutralising all threats and restoring confidence among citizens, particularly in the affected local government areas,” he said.

Alia also assured Benue residents that the state government was working in close collaboration with federal security agencies to achieve lasting peace in the state.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security operatives, and provide credible information to support ongoing operations.

While commiserating with families who lost their loved ones, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to tackle criminality decisively and ensure that Benue remains safe for all. (NAN)