The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the recent attack by bandits on the Abande community, Turan, in the Kwande local government area of the state, which claimed several lives and injured many.

The Governor, who confirmed that the terrorists killed several innocent people and razed houses in the community, said he has given a directive to security agencies to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

While extending condolences to those affected, the Governor described those behind the attacks as cowards.

Naija News recalls that the Benue State command of the Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the killing of a mobile police officer and four civilians during an attack by suspected armed bandits on Abande community in Kwande Local Government Area of the state.

The incident was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Makurdi by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Edet Udeme.

Reacting in a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia said the terrorists have dared the state and the Nigerian security system once more and must be dealt with in the language they understand better.

Governor Alia said, “My heart goes out to the peaceful people of Abande. This cowardly act of terror, which claimed innocent lives, including a gallant police officer, and led to the destruction of homes, is an assault on our shared humanity and an affront to the peace and security of Benue State.

“I extend my sincerest condolences to the families of the victims and to the entire Abande community at this painful time.

“May I assure the peace loving people of Benue that this government will not relent in its duty to protect lives and property.”

Alia said his administration is collaborating with the federal government to ensure such attacks are prevented in the future.

He assured that the state would overcome the challenge.

“I have already directed the relevant security agencies to intensify operations in the affected areas, go after the perpetrators with all energies at their disposal, and restore safety to our communities.

“We are meticulously strengthening collaboration with federal security authorities and our local intelligence structures to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that such attacks are decisively prevented.

“Let me also assure the people of Turan and Kwande at large that, you are not alone. I stand with you in solidarity and compassion,” the statement added.