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While Edikwu Laments, Alia Orders Rescue of Kidnapped Family

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed security agencies to intensify efforts in ensuring the safety of lives and properties within the state. This directive comes in the wake of a recent attack on Mr. Terwase Orbunde, a former Chief of Staff, during which his wife and cook were abducted by unknown gunmen who have demanded a ransom of ₦100 million for their release. Condemning the "barbaric act" in strong terms, Governor Alia emphasised the need for collective responsibility in combating insecurity. "Security should, and must be everyone's concern," he stated, urging residents to promptly report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. According to an associate of Mr Orbunde's Mr Tarhav Agezua, the former Chief of Staff said the abductors made contact with him, communicating through the captives and demanding the ransom amount. Agezua revealed that during the contact, the gunmen spoke Fulani among themselves and communicated with him in Hausa, threatening to kill the captives if the ransom was not paid. While acknowledging insecurity as a global issue, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia affirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to securing the state and ensuring the safe release of the abducted victims. "I will continue working round the clock to secure every life and property in the state," he assured, highlighting security as a top priority. Alia called upon security agencies to intensify efforts in apprehending the perpetrators of the attack and rescuing the abducted victims. He reiterated the government's willingness to provide the necessary support required by the agencies to effectively combat criminal elements disrupting the peace within the state. Addressing concerns over the recent security breach and abduction, Governor Alia assured the Benue people that measures are being taken to ensure their safety and secure the release of the captives. The Governor's statements underscore the administration's resolve to curb insecurity and restore peace, with a firm commitment to bringing those responsible for the attack and kidnapping to justice. In a related development, some communities in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State have lamented the neglect of their plights by Governor Hyacinth Alia. According to a post by one Mr Morgan Adikwu, Edikwu a once vibrant community is now plagued by sorrow, tears, and bloodshed due to relentless attacks by armed terrorists. Despite the devastation, he said, the state government has shown indifference, leaving the community to fend for itself. With farming activities disrupted, the community faces food insecurity and social unrest. Mr Adikwu therefore urged Federal Government intervention, with a deployment of mobile police to restore peace and order. His post underscores the position canvassed in a live video session yesterday on AkweyaTV's YouTube channel, urging swift action to break the cycle of violence and suffering in Benue State.

By Odoh Okenyodo April 14, 2024