The Benue State government (BNS), led by Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has expressed sympathy with the people of Asa-Otukpo, Benue State, following the devastating attacks by unknown gunmen on Sunday and Monday. The attacks resulted in loss of lives and abduction of persons.
Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode, who led a delegation of government officials to Otukpo, conveyed the government’s heartfelt condolences to the Och’Idoma, His Majesty Dr. Jonn Elaigwu, and the families of the victims. Dr. Ode assured that the government would leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice and preventing further attacks.
The delegation visited Asa, the scene of the attacks, where Dr. Ode extended his condolences to the residents and particularly mourned with the family of the late Akatu Onche, a retired comptroller of Immigration who was murdered by the attackers. The Monday attacks occurred around 8 pm, resulting in the death of Officer Onche and the abduction of three other individuals.
Earlier on Sunday, a woman was killed, and two other residents were taken away by the gunmen. The Deputy Governor also paid homage to the Och’Otukpo, HRH John Eimonye, expressing his sympathy for the devastating incident.
The entourage included Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Maxwell Ogiri; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Musa Ujor, and security heads from the Army, Police, Civil Defence, and DSS.
Following protests by residents over the killings and abductions, calm has been restored to the troubled town.
