Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has tasked security operatives deployed to the Akpete/Asaba community in Apa Local Government Area to rescue a little girl abducted by suspected armed herders and to locate other missing persons.

The communities were reportedly invaded on Friday, during which the herders attacked farmers working on cashew farms.

While locals told journalists that at least 15 people were killed in the attack, the police said in an earlier statement that six bodies had so far been recovered.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Kula Terso, Alia described the attack on farmers from Ojantelle, Asaba, and Akpete—who had gone to harvest cashew seeds—as a “terrorist act” that is unacceptable and a painful reminder of security challenges confronting farming communities in the state.

“How can you come in and attack a people who were simply pursuing their legitimate means of livelihood? My people are hardwo”king farmers and do not deserve such a cruel fate,” he said.

“I condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms. The killing of innocent Benue citizens going about their daily farm work is an assault on our shared humanity and will not be tolerated,” he stated.

Alia expressed sympathy with the affected communities and the families of the victims and assured them that the state government stands firmly with them.

He disclosed that he had directed security agencies to intensify operations in the area to track down the perpetrators, rescue the abducted girl, and locate other missing persons.

“Do not lose hope. My administration is working closely with security agencies and community leaders to strengthen protection around vulnerable areas,” he said.

The governor also assured that every effort is being made to bring those responsible for the attack to justice and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Benue State.

“We will not waver until our people are safe and can return to their fields without fear,” Alia said, praying for the repose of the souls of the departed and for strength for the families affected. (Saturday PUNCH)