By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia has disclosed the deployment of additional troops to Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State following sustained armed herder and bandit attacks that have crippled farming, displaced residents, and disrupted economic activities.
Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his visit to Benue over the killings of more than 200 in Yelwata community of Guma LGA promised the deployment of more troops to tackle insecurity in all parts of the state.
Sequel to the deployment, the governor through Ukum LGA Chairman, Jonathan Modi, during a security assessment tour with a military team led by Captain Balora, Sector Commander for Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Logo, and Buruku LGAs, disclosed that every effort possible was been made to end banditry in the area.
The tour covered Afia, Chito, and Dyôm communities, all of which have suffered repeated attacks.
Modi said the move was aimed at strengthening security protocols, protecting farmlands, and ending the cycle of violence.
He urged armed youths still hiding in the bush to surrender and embrace peace.
“I did not come here to hunt anybody. I’m here at the instance of the governor, and all that we want is for peace to return so our people can go back to farm,” Modi said.
Traditional leaders and community representatives, including the Mue Ter Ucha, HRH Utambe Nyagba, and President General of Ucha Development Association, Chief Booga Abull, pledged to support security personnel with intelligence to help ensure the mission’s success.
