At least nine people were killed and one critically injured during a brutal attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area, Benue State, as residents prepared for Easter Sunday celebrations.
Timothy Adi, Chairman of Gwer East LGA, confirmed the attack to journalists in Makurdi, saying it occurred between 5pm and 6pm on Saturday.
He added that security forces have been deployed and the situation is currently calm.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack as a “barbaric and unacceptable act” and expressed deep sympathy to the affected families.
He described the violence as a calculated attempt to disrupt the peace of the state, stressing that such terror will not be tolerated.
Alia praised the swift response of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, urging them to intensify operations to prevent further attacks and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
He also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.
The governor assured the people of Benue that his administration is taking all necessary measures to strengthen security, improve intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore lasting peace in the state.
