The Middle Belt Forum, MBF, has condemned in strong terms the barbaric massacre of 25 people by suspected Fulani herdsmen on Sunday, June 30, 2019, during a church service in Okokolo village in Agatu local government area of Benue State.
Dr Isuwa Dogo, National Publicity Secretary of MBF, lamented in a statement that the unprovoked attack on worshippers brings back the sad memory of previous attacks on Agatu and several other parts of Benue state that led to the death of hundreds of people and displacement of thousands now languishing in Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs camps.
“It is more regrettable that inspite of these series of attacks, the security agencies are yet to arrest and prosecute any of these perpetrators,” the statement lamented.
MBF called on the country’s security agencies not to leave any stone un-turned towards ensuring that perpetrators of the heinous crime against humanity do not go unpunished.
It said further, “the forum commiserates with the people and government of Benue state over the unfortunate tragedy that led to the loss of no fewer than 50 lives and over 100 persons injured during the petrol tanker incident that took place at Ahumbe village along Makurdi-Aliade-Utukpo road in Gwer West local government area.
“These tragedies are one too many in a state that has continued to witness such pathetic occurrences without respite.
“We pray for the repose of those killed and comfort to the bereaved families, people and government of Benue state.”
