Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the killing of two travellers along the Awajir-Oju Road, describing the act as a brutal and senseless attack on indigenes of the state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor said preliminary security reports indicated that the victims, who were travelling by motorcycle from Oju, were ambushed and murdered in cold blood.

Governor Alia also decried a separate attack on Nyifon community in Mbaikyongo Council Ward, Buruku Local Government Area, allegedly carried out by youths from Mbayaka community in Kusuv, also within Buruku LGA. The incident reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding related to a recent boat mishap.

Describing both attacks as “deeply unfortunate,” the governor emphasised that no individual or group had the right to invade or harm another community, regardless of the provocation.

He directed security agencies to collaborate with traditional rulers in the affected areas to ensure the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice within 48 hours.

“Benue is beginning to experience a measure of stability in security. I will not tolerate any attempt by anyone, regardless of their status or motives, to incite unrest or undermine the peace we are striving to sustain,” Alia stated.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging communities across the state to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding as investigations continue.