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Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has directed security agencies to immediately commence coordinated operations to dislodge armed herdsmen terrorist camps identified in forests around Apa, Otukpo, Gwer-West, and other parts of the state.
The decisive directive, issued on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, comes as a direct response to brutal attacks on innocent communities, particularly the recent violence in Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi, and Adija in Apa Local Government Area, as well as Upu village in Otukpo LGA, which left many residents dead.
Governor Alia described the renewed waves of violent attacks as unacceptable and increasingly hydra-headed. He noted that criminal elements have exploited forested areas as operational bases to launch assaults on nearby settlements and stressed that these threats must be flushed out without delay.
In a press statement issued by Chief Press Secretary Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor reaffirmed that the protection of lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of his administration. He mandated a sustained, intelligence-driven security crackdown aimed at neutralizing all threats and restoring confidence among citizens, especially in the affected local government areas.
Governor Alia assured residents that the state government is working in close synergy with federal security agencies and will not relent until lasting peace is achieved. He urged the people to remain vigilant, cooperate with security operatives, and continue providing credible information to support ongoing operations.
While commiserating with families who have lost loved ones in the recent attacks, the governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to confront criminality head-on and ensure that Benue State is safe for all.
The latest incidents have deepened grief and fear across rural communities in Apa LGA, where nine residents were killed in an attack on Edikwu-Ankpali. The victims, many of whom were family breadwinners, included Elaigwu Pelu (31), Oigene Ogah (62), Adah Aboje (78), Peter Omafu (59), John Peter Musa (33), Ogagwu John (31), Eluma Ogbeni (30), John Elegbo (39), and Gideon Monday (29). Their burials have left families and entire communities mourning, with renewed calls for stronger protection and accountability.
As security operations intensify, the state government has emphasized that efforts will persist until stability is fully restored. For the people of Benue, particularly those in the hardest-hit areas, the hope is that this swift response will bring an end to the cycle of violence and allow residents to live without fear.
