It is with a heavy heart that I address the people of Benue State regarding the recent coordinated attacks by suspected herdsmen on our beloved communities in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.
As of this moment, we have confirmed the tragic loss of twenty (20) precious lives in the Sankera axis. Five corpses were initially recovered in Gbagir and taken to the mortuary. Two more were later found by residents searching for their loved ones. One family, devastated by their loss, insisted on an immediate burial of their relative in Gbagir, and our security forces stood by them, ensuring their safety as they laid their relative to rest.
Simultaneously, in Logo, the police recovered twelve more bodies, bringing the total number of lives lost to twenty. These are not just numbers; these are fathers, mothers, children, brothers, and sisters whose lives were cut short by senseless violence.
I have spoken directly with our security operatives and I want to assure you, we are not backing down. We remain committed to protecting every Benue life and will continue to work relentlessly to restore peace and order to our communities.
To our people, I appeal once again: speak up. Share information with our security agencies. Help us fish out the perpetrators of these evil acts. Our strength lies in our unity.
Benue will not bow to fear. We will rise, rebuild, and remain unshaken.