Terrorists behind Benue killings, not just herders – Governor Alia

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has described the recent violent attacks in the state as acts of terrorism, not merely conflicts between farmers and herders.

In an interview on Politics Today aired Friday on Channels Television, Governor Alia said the brutality and coordination of the attacks point to a deliberate campaign by armed groups to terrorize farming communities.

He revealed that dozens of people were killed in coordinated attacks across the state, including one incident where 73 people lost their lives in a single local government area. Another attack in Mbalom, Gwer East, saw over 30 victims buried after an ambush following Sunday church service.

“These attacks are guerrilla-style operations, carefully planned and executed. This is terrorism, not random violence,” Alia emphasized.

The governor’s remarks highlight the urgent need for stronger security measures to protect vulnerable communities in Benue.