By Paul Aondoakaa 

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the deadly attacks on Akpachi Village and Otukpo-Nobi in Otukpo Local Government Area, describing the violence as barbaric and directing security agencies to intensify operations to apprehend those responsible.

Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the early Sunday attacks on Akpachi Village in Akpa and the Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, describing the incident as a tragic assault on innocent lives and the peace of Benue State.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the attacks, which he said were carried out by suspected armed herdsmen.

According to the statement, the attackers reportedly invaded Akpachi Village between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., while residents were asleep. The government said scores of people were killed, while several others sustained injuries.

Governor Alia described the incident as "a barbaric and inhuman assault on the sanctity of life and the collective soul of the people of Benue State."

He said the attacks occurred despite ongoing efforts by his administration, traditional rulers and security agencies to promote peace across the state.

"These acts of mindless bloodshed are a direct attempt to sabotage the progress of our state," the governor said.

The governor sympathised with families who lost loved ones and assured residents of Otukpo and the wider Benue South Senatorial District that his administration would continue working to protect lives and communities.

He further directed all security agencies operating in Benue to collaborate with counterparts in neighbouring states, intensify surveillance and patrols in vulnerable communities, and pursue those responsible for the attacks.

Governor Alia also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence to help prevent further violence.

The statement concluded with the governor reaffirming his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property while praying for the repose of those who died and the speedy recovery of the injured.

At the time of publication, Benue Info-pedia has not independently verified the casualty figures contained in the government's statement. Further updates will be published as more verified information becomes available.