Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has directed security agencies to immediately launch coordinated operations to dislodge armed herder terrorist camps identified in forested areas across the state.
The directive follows recent deadly attacks on communities, including Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi, and Adija in Apa Local Government Area, as well as Upu village in Otukpo LGA, which reportedly claimed several lives.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the governor’s spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, said Governor Alia described the renewed violence as unacceptable and increasingly complex.
According to the statement, the Governor said the attackers have been using forests as operational bases to carry out assaults on innocent residents, stressing that such hideouts must be dismantled without delay.
Alia reaffirmed that safeguarding lives and property remains the top priority of his administration, mandating a sustained, intelligence-driven security operation aimed at neutralising threats and restoring public confidence, particularly in the affected areas.
He also assured residents that the state government is working closely with federal security agencies and will persist until lasting peace is restored across Benue State.
The governor urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security operatives, and provide credible information to support ongoing efforts.
While extending condolences to the families of victims, Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling criminality decisively and ensuring the safety of all residents.
