Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the early morning attack on the Efeyi community in Ugboju District, Otukpo Local Government Area, which left scores of residents dead and many others injured.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the Governor expressed deep grief over the incident, which was carried out by suspected armed herders in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
“Scores of persons have been murdered, with many others sustaining various degrees of injury, as suspected armed herdsmen launched yet another attack on the Efeyi community in Ugboju District of Otukpo LGA of Benue State,” the statement read.
Governor Alia noted that following reports of the attack, personnel of the Benue State Police Command swiftly deployed to the area and engaged the assailants. A fire exchange ensued, resulting in the neutralisation of two of the bandits who were providing cover for the others to escape.
The Governor specifically commended the Benue State Police Command for its prompt response and professionalism in tracking and confronting the attackers.
He reiterated that the perpetrators of the heinous crime must face the full weight of the law. “The attackers must pay for their crime against the people of the state,” he stated.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting security agencies with the necessary logistics and resources to protect lives and property across Benue State. He emphasised that strangers would not be allowed to drive the people of Benue from their ancestral homes.
“Our people are peaceful and hardworking. I was elected to protect them, and I must do everything legitimately possible to ensure my people are protected, and our land is secured,” the Governor declared.
Reports indicate that the attackers stormed the community at about 5 a.m., shooting sporadically. Local government authorities confirmed that at least 14 bodies have been recovered, with several other residents sustaining injuries. The latest incident follows a series of attacks in Otukpo and neighbouring areas in recent weeks.
Governor Alia called on residents to remain calm but vigilant and to continue providing credible information to security agencies.