By Matthew Ajai-Kume
The 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Revd Fr Hyacinth Alia has expressed grief over the gruesome attack on Gbeji community in Ukum Local Government Area of the state, which led to the death of over 23 persons and many property destroyed.
A statement by Director Communications, Alia and Ode Alialization Campaign 2023, Tersoo Kula said his principal, Fr Alia strongly condemned the resurgence of unprovoked attacks, which always equally left properties destroyed.
The statement partly read: “Just last week, our communities at Yelwata were attacked. Few days after, we received reports of about two attacks on some communities in Guma Local Government Area.
“All these attacks, from what I gathered are done in similar fashion. It means they are perpetrated by same armed militia herders who are out to destroy our land by all means. This is most unfortunate.”
According to the statement, Fr Alia regretted the loss of lives and suffering of survivors, while he stated that from all indications, government was not profound in approaches to protecting the lives and properties of Benue natives, especially those living at the border communities.
“Security of life and property should be foremost duty of government all the times,” the statement maintained.
He called on the federal and state governments to be more committed in collaborating, towards apprehending and prosecuting the perpetrators and preventing a reccurrence.
He offered his heartfelt sympathy to victims of the attack, as well as pledged his support and prayers at all times.
