Alia Condemns Deadly Attack On Saai Community, Orders Massive Security Deployment
Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the deadly attack on Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, describing the incident as a senseless and cowardly assault on innocent citizens.
The governor, in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, said he received with deep sadness reports of the attack, which occurred in the early hours of July 1, 2026.
According to the statement, the assailants, alleged to be terrorists masquerading as herdsmen, attacked the community, leaving scores of people dead and many others with varying degrees of injuries.
Governor Alia described the attack as unacceptable, noting that it came at a critical period when farmers had returned to their ancestral lands and were actively cultivating their farms.
"This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hardworking farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms," the governor said.
He added that the attackers had deliberately sought to undermine peace and food security in the state by striking at a time when crops were developing and expectations for a successful harvest were high.
Expressing his condolences, Governor Alia sympathised with the families of those who lost their loved ones and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.
"My heart goes out to those who lost their loved ones as well as other victims currently receiving medical attention. We pray for their swift and total recovery. I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief," he said.
The governor also reassured residents of Katsina-Ala and Benue State that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property.
"We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We are building a Benue where peace and justice prevail, and this setback will only strengthen our resolve," he stated.
To address the situation, Governor Alia directed security agencies to immediately deploy additional personnel to Saai and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks. He also ordered a manhunt for those responsible, with instructions that they be apprehended and prosecuted.
In addition, he directed security operatives to ensure adequate protection for farmers so that agricultural activities could continue without disruption.
The governor appealed to residents to remain calm but vigilant and urged them to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security formation.
He assured the people that his administration would continue working with security agencies until lasting peace is restored across every part of Benue State.
