The 17 victims of the armed herders’ attack on Mbakyor in Mbalom, Gwer-East Local Government Area of Benue State, were given a mass burial on Tuesday.
The burial was attended by various dignitaries, including the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, News About Nigeria reports.
Speaking at the event, Governor Alia stressed the importance of community involvement in security matters.
He advocated for the formation of vigilante groups as one of the solutions to end the incessant attacks by armed herders in Benue communities.
The tragic incident, which occurred on March 7, 2024, resulted in the deaths of 17 people, including a retired Warrant Officer 2 (WO2) Army Officer and a young boy.
Two of the victims had been buried earlier due to the advanced state of decomposition of their bodies.
Expressing his condolences to the bereaved families, Governor Alia pledged to address the security challenges in the area.
He promised to construct a road to ease the movement of security agencies and advocated for the establishment of a police station in the community.
Elias Audu, a member of the Benue House of Assembly representing Gwer East, criticised the security agencies for their perceived failure to respond effectively to the attack.
He urged for accountability and called for the need for stronger security measures to prevent future incidents.
The president of the Masev Development Association, Prof. Vitalis Tarhule, stated that it is the government’s responsibility to protect lives and property.
He called for the establishment of a security post in Mbaikyor to curb the activities of armed herders.
Simon Kofi, Chairman of the Association of Mbaikyor Sons in the diaspora, stated that proactive measures were taken by the community, including the apprehension of two herders before the attack.
The ceremony also featured an interdenominational service to honour the memory of the victims and pray for their souls.
