The death toll from coordinated attacks by gunmen on Benue communities on Friday has risen to 55.
This was disclosed on Saturday by the state governor, Hyacinth Alia, during an inspection tour of the affected local government areas.
Giving a breakdown, Alia stated that the latest figures show 27 deaths in Logo LGA and another 28 in Ukum LGA.
The governor described the situation in the state as “a real war” that cannot be handled with complacency.
According to him, “Since these attacks started, we have recovered corpses. As of yesterday (Friday), we received some, and today (Saturday), the tally has risen to 27 in Logo. In Ukum, security operatives have recovered over 28 corpses.
“There is no room for anyone to sleep with their two eyes closed. This is real war. We know our enemies. This is the only state that we have. I mourn with you at this very pathetic and sad moment in your lives.”
The governor commended security agencies for their sacrifices in maintaining peace in the state and appealed to the Federal Government for support in ending the killings and displacement of innocent citizens.
He also pledged to cover burial and medical expenses for those hospitalised.
The affected communities have reportedly been deserted, with residents seeking refuge in Zaki-Biam and Ugba IDP camps.
It will be recalled that some communities, including Ugondo in Logo, as well as Tyuluv, Gbagir, and parts of Ukum Local Government Area, were attacked between Thursday and Friday by gunmen suspected to be armed herders.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the state, Catherine Anene, had earlier announced on Friday that 17 people—five in Ukum and 12 in Logo—were killed in the simultaneous attacks.
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