Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has ordered the immediate deployment of joint security forces to Apa and Gwer West Local Government Areas following deadly attacks that claimed numerous lives.
The directive came after an emergency security council meeting held at the Government House in Makurdi, where the governor confirmed the killing of at least 23 individuals — 12 in Apa and 11 in Gwer West.
However, unofficial reports from local sources suggest the death toll may be higher, with ongoing security assessments expected to reveal more details in the coming days.
In the wake of the violence, Governor Alia strongly condemned the attacks, believed to have been carried out by suspected armed herdsmen. He assured residents that the state government is working closely with federal security agencies to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed.
Unconfirmed community reports indicated that over 25 people may have been killed in Edikwu Ankpali in Apa LGA alone, while others were feared dead following a late-night raid on Tyoshin in Naka, the administrative center of Gwer West.
The governor emphasized that the security sweep is aimed at neutralizing the threats, stabilizing the affected areas, and ensuring the safe return of displaced residents. He also called for calm and cooperation from the local population as security operatives intensify surveillance and patrols.
This recent escalation in violence adds to the growing security concerns in the Middle Belt region, where farmer-herder clashes have continued to displace thousands and strain local resources.
Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to ending the cycle of violence, saying, “We will not sit back and watch our people slaughtered. Every necessary action is being taken to protect lives and restore law and order.”
