…Governor Alia talks tough, described the attack as “unacceptable”
By Steven Kefas, Kaduna
Dozens of people were killed in a fresh attack on a remote village in Nigeria’s Benue state on Saturday. The gunmen suspect to be Fulani terrorists, opened fire on the villagers in Akpuuna village, killing 24 people and injuring several others.
The attack is the latest in a series of deadly attacks in Benue state, where violent herders have continued to invade farming communities in recent years. The state has seen more than 100 people killed in violence this year alone.
In the latest attack, the gunmen arrived in the village around midday and opened fire on the villagers, who were caught unawares. The attack lasted for more than two hours before the gunmen fled the scene.
Local officials said that the victims included women and children. The names of the victims have not been released.
The attack has sparked outrage in Benue state, with many people calling for the government to do more to protect the people.
The state governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has condemned the attack and directed security agents to hunt down the perpetrators.
“This attack is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Alia said in a statement.
“I have directed security agents to do everything possible to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The attack is a reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria. The country is facing a number of security threats, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. The government has been struggling to contain these threats, and the latest attack is a setback in its efforts to do so.
The attack on Akpuuna village is also a reminder of the vulnerability of rural communities in Nigeria. These communities are often targeted by armed groups, and the government has been criticized for not doing enough to protect them.
The latest attack is a tragedy, and it is a reminder of the need for the current government to take action to address the security challenges facing the Middle Belt and the country at large.
