The Benue State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Dr. Benjamin Omale, has paid a condolence and humanitarian visit to victims of recent attacks by unknown gunmen in Otukpo and Ohimini Local Government Areas. During the visit, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Benue State Government to the safety, security and welfare of its citizens.
Dr. Omale met with bereaved families and victims in the affected communities of Efeyi in Ugboju, Agadagba, Okpiko, Ochobo and Onyagede, as well as those receiving treatment at the Teaching Hospital in Otukpo. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of innocent lives, describing the attacks as a painful assault on the peace and unity of Benue State. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities and prayed for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives and for comfort for their loved ones.
He also conveyed the sympathy of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia to the families of the deceased, the injured and those displaced by the violence, assuring them that the government shares in their grief and is taking concrete steps to address the security challenges confronting the affected communities. To provide immediate relief, Dr. Omale presented relief materials to the affected families.
The APC chairman strongly condemned the killings and all forms of violence against innocent citizens, stressing that no grievance justifies the taking of innocent lives. He appealed to residents to remain calm, reject every form of retaliation and continue to embrace peace, emphasising that unity is stronger than division and violence. He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served, while commending security personnel for their sacrifices and dedication. He further urged residents to support security agencies with credible and timely information that would assist in exposing criminal elements.
Dr. Omale expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Alia for their continued commitment and collaborative efforts in combating insecurity and strengthening the protection of lives and property across Benue State. He called on political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to work together in promoting peaceful coexistence, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences.
Assuring the affected communities that their plight would continue to receive attention and advocacy, he called for sustained humanitarian support for displaced persons, widows, orphans and other victims while reaffirming his commitment to advancing the security and welfare of the people through lawful and peaceful means. Members of the affected communities appreciated the visit, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and responsive leadership at a time they needed encouragement most. They also prayed for the repose of those who lost their lives, the speedy recovery of the injured, and lasting peace, justice and security in Benue State and Nigeria. The statement was signed by Benedict Yawe, State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State.
