Gov Alia Condemns, Laments Deadly Attack on Yelwata Community
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the latest attack on Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area, describing it as a brutal and senseless act of violence that must not go unpunished.
The attack, which occurred late Friday night, reportedly claimed dozens of lives and left many others injured. Eyewitnesses say armed men suspected to be herdsmen stormed the area and opened fire on residents, burning down homes and causing widespread panic and displacement.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Governor Alia described the attack as “heinous” and “utterly unacceptable,” and called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“This attack on Yelwata is not just a tragedy for Benue but a direct assault on our collective humanity,” the governor said. “We will not rest until those responsible are found and prosecuted.”
The Yelwata community, located near the border with Nasarawa State, has experienced previous bouts of violence linked to farmer-herder clashes, making it a flashpoint in the ongoing security crisis in the region.
The governor also appealed for calm among residents and urged communities to cooperate with security forces. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the lives and property of every Benue citizen.
No arrests have been made as of the time of this report, but local officials say security has been beefed up in the area.
