Obasempire reports that the death toll from the recent violence in the Ayati community within the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State has risen to 50, including two police officers, as additional bodies have been discovered.
State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, who denounced the resurgence of violence, expressed frustration that the assault occurred despite a significant security presence in the region.
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The governor voiced concern that the violence persists in the council area despite substantial security measures and ongoing dialogue sessions his administration has been conducting with stakeholders and traditional leaders to restore peace in Sankera.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, and shared with journalists in Makurdi, the governor described the incident as “another unprovoked assault on the Ayati community in Ukum Local Government Area, where several individuals were reportedly killed.”
“Governor Alia strongly condemns the attack on unarmed innocent citizens of Benue State by armed bandits, expressing worry that such heinous act has continued in the state despite strong security presence.”
Alia, who vowed to continue to use lawful procedures to protect Benue people, particularly Ukum residents, called on security personnel to improve their surveillance and ensure that vulnerable communities were not left unguarded.
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He explained that the government was awaiting a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to bring out its findings.
“He consoles families that lost their loved ones in the attack, saying his thoughts of comfort and prayers are with them and with the entire people of Ukum Local Government.
Ukum is one of the three local government areas (others are Katsina-Ala and Logo LGs) that make up the Sankara axis where criminality holds sway.
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