Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has announced a full military intervention to address the escalating threat posed by armed bandits in the Sankera region of the state.
The decision follows a violent attack by bandits on Ayati community in Borikyo Council Ward of Ukum Local Government Area on Tuesday night. The attack resulted in several deaths and triggered a protest on Wednesday, which was hijacked by alleged criminals who proceeded to destroy personal and public properties in Sankera.
In a live broadcast from Makurdi, Governor Alia expressed his sympathy for the victims and condemned the bandits’ actions, as well as the subsequent chaos.
“Since our administration began, we have taken numerous steps to eradicate bandit activity,” Alia stated. “Our security agencies have successfully pushed back some bandits, neutralized two, and recovered seven motorcycles, two English pistols, a Toyota Camry, a commercial tricycle, and numerous charms.”
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Alia explained that the recent attack on Ayati was a reprisal by the bandits, who believed that members of the community had informed authorities about their operations. This led to an initial protest by aggrieved family members and women, which was later hijacked by bandits and miscreants, resulting in further destruction.
“The mayhem caused by these acts of violence has not gone unnoticed,” Alia said. “Full military intervention has been ordered. My heart goes out to the three soldiers and two police officers who were injured while protecting lives and properties in Sankera. They have since been treated and discharged.”
The governor emphasized the need for constructive action rather than destruction and chaos. “While we empathize with the pain and frustration felt, we must channel our energies towards constructive actions. Destruction of public property only compounds our challenges and diverts resources needed to address the root causes of these issues,” he said.
Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to the safety and security of all residents of Benue State. He assured that efforts are being intensified in collaboration with security agencies to bring the perpetrators of these violent acts to justice.
“I extend our hands of fellowship to the youths who have chosen to reside in the forests and launch attacks on innocent citizens. My government has run out of patience and will no longer guarantee the olive branch extended to them,” Alia warned.
The governor concluded by announcing the formation of a commission of inquiry to investigate the causes of the violence and pledged further actions to end these retrogressive activities.
“Our government will set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the causes of this mayhem. Additionally, more actions will be taken to demonstrate our commitment to bringing these activities to a total end,” he affirmed.