Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has ordered a coordinated security operation to dislodge suspected armed herder camps located in forests across parts of the state.

The directive follows recent deadly attacks in Apa and Otukpo local government areas that left several residents dead and communities in mourning.

It also comes after renewed violence in Edikwu-Ankpali, Ikobi, and Adija communities in Apa LGA, as well as Upu village in Otukpo LGA, where multiple fatalities were recorded. The incidents have heightened tensions and renewed concerns over insecurity in rural Benue.

Governor Alia said criminal elements have taken advantage of forested terrain to establish operational bases used for launching attacks on nearby settlements.

He ordered security agencies to carry out an intelligence-driven crackdown aimed at flushing out the suspects and restoring stability in affected areas.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s collaboration with federal security agencies to ensure coordinated operations across the state.

According to a statement by his chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor described the situation as unacceptable and urged residents to support security operatives with credible information.

He also commiserated with families affected by the attacks, assuring them of government commitment to justice and protection.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant as security operations intensify across identified hotspots.

The state government affirmed that efforts will continue until a lasting peace is restored across Benue’s affected communities.

Gov Alia orders operation to flush out armed herdsmen from Benue forests