Benue killings: ‘We will not surrender to violence’ – Gov Alia reacts to deadly Ukum, Logo attacks

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the recent coordinated attacks on communities in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, describing the incident as a tragic and senseless loss of innocent lives.

Addressing the people of Benue on Thursday, the governor confirmed that twenty persons were killed in the coordinated assaults carried out by suspected herdsmen in the Sankera axis.

“It is with a heavy heart that I address the people of Benue State regarding the recent coordinated attacks on our beloved communities in Ukum and Logo,” the governor stated.

According to him, five bodies were initially recovered in the Gbagir area of Ukum and taken to the mortuary, while two additional victims were later found by community members searching for missing relatives. One grieving family opted to bury their loved one immediately in Gbagir, with security operatives on hand to ensure their safety during the burial.

In Logo, twelve more corpses were recovered by police, bringing the confirmed death toll to twenty.

“These are not just statistics,” the governor said solemnly. “These were fathers, mothers, children, brothers, and sisters whose lives were cut short by brutal and unprovoked violence.”

He assured the public that the state government is in constant communication with security agencies and is actively supporting ongoing operations to track and apprehend the perpetrators.

“I want to assure you, we are not backing down,” he said. “We remain committed to protecting every Benue life and will continue to work relentlessly to restore peace and order to our communities.”

Governor Alia also made a passionate appeal to residents to assist security agencies by providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of the attackers.

“To our people, I appeal once again: speak up. Share what you know. Help us bring those responsible to justice. Our strength lies in our unity.”

“Benue will not bow to fear. We will rise, rebuild, and remain unshaken,” he added.

The state government has pledged to provide support to the affected families and communities, even as security efforts intensify across the region to prevent further violence.