Gunmen have attacked several communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, killing several residents and injuring others.
The attack reportedly occurred early Sunday in Mbaterem, Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio and Ukpen communities in Mbazun Ward.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condoled with the affected communities, while commending security agencies for their response to the attack.
According to a statement by Tersoo Kula, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, the attackers allegedly masqueraded as herdsmen before launching the assault.
“Governor Hyacinth Alia appreciates the prompt response by security agencies in the herdsmen terror attack on Ukum Local Government Area,” the statement said.
Alia also sympathised with families who lost loved ones and those injured in the attack, pledging continued support for security agencies to protect residents.
The governor warned against further attacks, insisting that attempts to drive Benue residents from their ancestral lands would fail.
“Benue lands for Benue people. Anyone who thinks the attacking us will intimidate us to leave the land is making a mistake,” Alia was quoted as saying.
“I took an oath to protect our people, and I will not relent. I must appreciate the fact that the federal government is advancing a lot of support for us to tackle these acts of terrorism.”
The latest attack comes amid continued violence in parts of Benue State.
Last month, several people were reportedly killed after suspected armed herders attacked Sai community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
In April, at least 17 people were also reported killed in an attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area.
