Boody Saturday in Benue as herdsmen kill 11, injure 7 in Katsina-Ala
By Ndukaku Ihe
Herdsmen
It was a bloody weekend in Benue State as herdsmen on Saturday killed at least 11 persons in Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa communities of Kpav in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of the state.
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has condoled with the families of the victims and the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, over bloody attacks by marauding armed herdsmen
The Katsina-Ala Chairman, Mr Justine Shaku who confirmed the attacks lamented that 11 persons were killed, while seven were seriously injured.
He revealed that the incident happened between 7:30 to 9pm on Saturday, March 9, 2025.
The chairman disclosed that several houses were burnt while food stuffs were destroyed.
His words: “there was no provocation before the attack. The bandits have been carrying out these killings over time. The council is holding security meeting at the moment.
“Killings took place yesterday between 7-9pm. About 11 people were killed, 7 others sustained various degree of injures and they are receiving treatment in some hospitals. I’m here with the House of Representatives member representing this axis, Hon. Solomon Wombo. We are here with the locals, trying to settle bills, make arrangements for caskets for burial.”
Meanwhile, Governor Alia has expressed his profound condolences to the families of the casualties and the entire community of Kpav, particularly Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa, following the vicious attack by marauding armed herdsmen.
He said the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of homes is a painful reminder of the challenges his administration encounters in the journey for peace and security in the state.
He said, “this measure of cruelty is extremely offensive and will not be countenanced”.
The governor condemned the barbaric action and reassured the people that those responsible will face justice.
He stated that in response to the misfortune, his government has already marshalled security forces to the afflicted localities, stating further that enhanced security steps were being implemented to track the aggressors and forestall further incidents.
He said:”We are striving intently with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure that our villages can reside in peace without fear of terrorism.
“To the people of Benue State, we want to encourage you that your security is our top priority. We recognize the anxiety and fear that such incidents can produce, but we are committed to strengthening peace and security in our communities.
“Collectively, we will rise above this challenge and strengthen our willpower to protect our homes and loved ones.
“We appeal to everybody to remain wary and report any doubtful activities to the authorities. It is only through our concerted efforts that we can achieve longstanding peace”.
Governor Alia prayed for the lives of the deceased and called upon all residents to stand bound together against brutality and insecurity.
The President General of Mdzough u Tiv World Wide, and Chairman of the Three Socio Cultural Organizations in Benue State, CP. Iorbee Ihagh (rtd) has condemned attacks in Dikpo and Imande Gberihwa in Shitile Kpav by suspected herdsmen militia.
Ihagh who spoke through his Press Secretary, Nicholas Ishom commended the governor’s efforts towards bringing lasting peace to the affected communities and appealed that more security forces should be deployed to prevent future occurrence.
He also extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and prayed God to rest their souls.
