Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has denounced the gruesome attack on the Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area, while commending the swift arrest of three suspects allegedly connected to the attack.
The attack on Thursday night led to the tragic loss of 11 lives, including four police officers.
Rev Fr Alia, according to a statement on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, said, “This despicable act is an attack on the peace-loving people of Ayilamo and a grave threat to the security and stability of Benue State.
“The reported killing of four law enforcement officers is particularly painful and underscores the enormous sacrifices being made by security personnel in the line of duty.”
He described it as a disturbing reminder of the persistent insecurity and repeated attacks on vulnerable communities and law-enforcement officers in the area.
Governor Alia, who extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Ayilamo, the families of all the victims, and the entire Logo Local Government community, also commiserated with the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, over the loss of the four officers who paid the supreme price in the service of their fatherland.
He said, “We honour their courage and sacrifice and pray that God grants their families, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss”.
The governor commended the Department of State Services (DSS), particularly its personnel in Benue and Nasarawa States, for the prompt and professional operation that led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly connected with the Ayilamo attack.
He described the arrest as a significant step towards uncovering the full circumstances of the incident and bringing those responsible to justice.
“We urge the DSS to intensify its investigation and make the best use of the information obtained from the suspects in its custody.
“Every available lead should be diligently followed to identify and arrest the remaining accomplices, sponsors, collaborators, and other persons connected with the attack. All those found culpable must face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to collaborate with the security agencies to strengthen security in Ayilamo, Logo and other vulnerable communities across the state.
“We are committed to supporting efforts aimed at preventing further attacks, protecting residents, restoring peace, and ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary attention and support.
“We appeal to the people of Ayilamo and surrounding communities to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding. I encourage residents to provide credible and timely information to the security agencies while refraining from actions that could heighten tension or undermine the ongoing investigation,” he said.
Governor Alia further assured the people of Ayilamo and the entire state that they would not be abandoned, saying, “we remain resolute in our determination to protect lives and property, uphold justice, and restore lasting peace across Benue State”.
Gov Alia condemns killing of 11 in Benue, commends DSS arrests