By David Lawani, Abuja
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for arresting three suspects allegedly linked to the deadly attack on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area of the state.
The governor, however, called for an expanded investigation to uncover the alleged sponsors, accomplices and collaborators behind the attack, which reportedly claimed several lives, including four police officers.
Alia made the call in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, describing the arrests as a breakthrough in the investigation.
He condemned the attack as “a despicable attack on the peace-loving people of Ayilamo” and urged the DSS and other security agencies to pursue every credible lead.
“We urge the DSS to intensify its investigation and make the best use of the information obtained from the suspects in its custody,” the governor said.
Alia said the reported killing of four police officers was particularly disturbing, describing their deaths as a reminder of the sacrifices security personnel make in protecting lives and property.
“The reported killing of four law enforcement officers is particularly painful and underscores the enormous sacrifices being made by security personnel in the line of duty,” he said.
He urged investigators not to stop with the arrest of the three suspects but to establish the wider network allegedly responsible for the attack.
“Every available lead should be diligently followed to identify and arrest the remaining accomplices, sponsors, collaborators, and other persons connected with the attack. All those found culpable must face the full weight of the law,” Alia said.
The governor said uncovering the wider network behind the incident was crucial to preventing similar attacks and strengthening security in vulnerable communities across the state.
He commiserated with the people of Ayilamo, the families of the victims and the entire Logo community, assuring them that the state government would continue to support affected residents.
Alia also condoled with the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, over the death of the four officers.
He said the officers paid the ultimate price in the service of the country, adding that their courage and sacrifice would not be forgotten.
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to work with security agencies to strengthen security in Ayilamo, Logo and other vulnerable communities.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm and vigilant and provide credible information that could assist the ongoing investigation.
“I encourage residents to provide credible and timely information to the security agencies while refraining from actions that could heighten tension or undermine the ongoing investigation,” he said.
Alia reiterated the commitment of his administration to protecting lives and property, restoring peace and ensuring justice for victims of attacks across Benue State.
