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Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly denounced the deadly assault carried out on Tuesday by suspected herdsmen in Abande community, Turan district of Kwande Local Government Area, which reportedly left more than 17 people dead and many others injured.
According to reports, armed attackers stormed Abande market, firing indiscriminately at traders, setting homes and market stalls ablaze, and causing widespread destruction and loss of lives.
Reacting in a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor described the incident as a grave provocation, stating that “the terrorists have dared the state and the Nigerian security system once more and must be attended to in the language they understand best.”
He expressed deep sympathy for the victims, adding: “My heart goes out to the peaceful people of Abande.
This cowardly act of terror, which claimed innocent lives, including a gallant police officer, and led to the destruction of homes, is an assault on our shared humanity and an affront to the peace and security of Benue State.”
Governor Alia also conveyed his condolences to affected families and the entire community, saying: “I extend my sincerest condolences to the families of the victims and to the entire Abande community at this painful time.”
Reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to their safety, he said: “May I assure the peace-loving people of Benue that this government will not relent in its duty to protect lives and property.”
The governor disclosed that he had already taken decisive steps to address the situation, noting: “I have already directed the relevant security agencies to intensify operations in the affected areas, go after the perpetrators with all the energies at their disposal, and restore safety to our communities.”
He further emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen security coordination, stating: “We are meticulously strengthening collaboration with federal security authorities and our local intelligence structures to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that such attacks are decisively prevented.”
Offering words of encouragement to residents of Turan and Kwande, Governor Alia added: “Let me also assure the people of Turan and Kwande at large that you are not alone. I stand with you in solidarity and compassion.”
He urged the people to remain united and hopeful despite the tragedy, expressing confidence that Benue State would overcome the challenge.
Abande market attack: Gov Alia condemns killings, orders manhunt for suspects
