Governor of Benue State Confirms Killing of 23 in Fresh Attacks, Orders Immediate Security Action

Makurdi, Benue State – June 2, 2025Benue State has been thrown into mourning following the confirmation of fresh attacks that claimed the lives of 23 individuals in Apa and Gwer West Local Government Areas.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, in an official statement released via his Facebook page, described the killings as “brutal and unprovoked,” revealing that 12 people were killed in Apa and 11 in Gwer West. “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the loss of 23 innocent lives,” the Governor stated. “These killings are unacceptable, and as your Governor, I will not sit idle while our communities are turned into killing fields.”In response, the Governor convened an emergency security council meeting at the Government House in Makurdi on Monday morning.

He subsequently directed joint security forces to move into the affected areas and their surroundings without delay. According to the Governor, the mission of the security operatives is clear: “stop the violence, sweep the communities, and restore peace.”Governor Alia assured residents that his administration stands in solidarity with the grieving families and those who have been displaced by the attacks.

He also affirmed that the government is mobilizing all available resources to ensure the protection of lives and property, and to bring the perpetrators to justice.As security operations commence in the troubled areas, the Governor called on citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security personnel.Further updates are expected as the situation develops and the state government intensifies its response to the crisis.