Gov Alia Assures
*Condoles families of victims
*Insists law against open grazing still in place
By; ARCHIBONG ESUENE, Makurdi
Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has extended condolences to the families of the victims of Wa-ndoo, Mbalom, Gwer-East Local Government Area who were attacked by suspected to be armed herders.
The governor assured them of his administration’s determination and readiness to ensure that the armed bandits who allegedly perpetrated the heinous act are caught and brought before the law.
New Nigerian Newspapers in Makurdi reports that suspected armed herders last Thursday, 7th March 2024, at about 7pm invaded the Wa-ndoo community in Mbalom of Gwer-East Local Government and killed scores of natives.
In a press statement by Tersoo Kula Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, he said the Security operatives in the State were directed to go after and apprehend the criminal herders as soon as possible.
He said, “We gave these criminals orders to leave the state immediately. We also gave ultimatum to those practicing open grazing in the state to ensure they comply with the law or leave the state within 14 days.
“That ultimatum has since elapsed. I can see what happened at Wa-ndoo is a calculated attempt to test the resolve of my government over the matter I have already given priority”.
He said criminals under whatsoever guise who found their way into the state should know that the time is up and there is no going back on strict enforcement of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law (2017).