No fewer than 17 persons were reportedly killed following a heinous attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State on Easter Sunday.

This incident marks another recurrence in the challenging security landscape of Benue, where various rural communities have frequently endured assaults by suspected armed groups.

Residents described how the attackers descended upon the community, indiscriminately killing people and setting numerous houses ablaze, leading to widespread destruction.

As of the time of the initial reports, 17 bodies had been recovered, but fears lingered as many residents remained unaccounted for, prompting searches in the surrounding bushlands for additional victims.

The assault resulted in the destruction of multiple homes and properties, leaving many survivors displaced and in dire need.

A local resident, choosing to remain anonymous, expressed the profound grief and shock, stating, "This is heartbreaking.”

Efforts to reach DSP Udeme Edet, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, for official confirmation of the tragic event, were unsuccessful.

In response to the devastating incident, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, issued a strong condemnation of the attack, which he attributed to suspected armed herdsmen, against the peaceful residents of Mbalom.

The Governor unequivocally labeled the barbaric act as unacceptable and a direct challenge to the collective peace and security that the state endeavors to maintain.

He extended his deepest sympathies to the families grappling with the aftermath of the attack, affirming the government's unwavering support during this difficult period.

Governor Alia voiced grave concern over the apparent pattern of what he described as calculated and selective attacks occurring across different parts of the state.

He emphasized that such acts of terror, despite their increasingly complex and multifaceted nature, would not be permitted to flourish within Benue.

The Governor reiterated his firm resolve to actively confront and subdue all forms of criminality that pose a threat to the safety and well-being of Benue's communities.

Commending the swift response and ongoing operations of security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, Governor Alia acknowledged their assurance that they are actively pursuing the perpetrators to ensure their arrest and subsequent prosecution.

He urged these agencies to intensify their operations to prevent future occurrences and to provide lasting relief and security to the affected communities.

While acknowledging the persistent challenges presented by these attacks, Governor Alia reassured the people of Benue State that his administration remains vigilant and dedicated to its fundamental duty of safeguarding lives and property.

He underscored that every necessary measure is being implemented to fortify the state's security infrastructure, enhance intelligence gathering capabilities, and foster collaboration with relevant stakeholders to restore enduring peace.

Finally, Governor Alia called upon residents to maintain calm, remain vigilant, and uphold the law, encouraging them to continue providing credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing operations.

According to a statement released by his spokesman, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia affirmed the Benue State government's steadfast commitment under his leadership to protect its citizens and its unwavering pursuit of peace, justice, and security for all.