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‘Perpetrators will be apprehended’ — Alia moves to probe killings in Benue community

TheCable 3 days ago
Hyacinth Alia, governor of Benue state

Hyacinth Alia, governor of Benue, says he will establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the recent security issues in Ukum LGA of the state.

Speaking on Friday during a state broadcast in Markurdi, the state capital, Alia said his administration has had enough of the banditry menace.

In March, a family of seven, including other residents, was murdered during a clash between rival militia groups in the Ukum community.

On Wednesday, violence erupted in the community as suspected bandits hijacked a peaceful protest and burnt down the office of the Independent Nations Electoral Commission (INEC) in the Sankara area of Ukum.

On July 2, gunmen reportedly killed six people during an attack on Ayati village in Ukum LGA.

The governor, on Thursday, imposed a 24-hour curfew on the LGA.

He said additional measures would be implemented to show his dedication to ending the regressive activities in the area.

Alia described the killings as “senseless,”  adding that the curfew was necessary to curb the violence.

“I assure you that I have listened. The mayhem caused by these heinous acts of violence has not gone unnoticed, and I stand with you in condemning these atrocities,” NAN quoted Alia as saying.

“Let me emphasise that while we empathise with the pain and frustration felt, we must channel our energies towards constructive actions.”

The governor assured residents that security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, adding that he would not relent in ensuring the development of the state.

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