North Central Development Commission decries attacks on Benue communities, calls for swift justice, restoration of peace

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has expressed profound grief and concern over the reported attacks on Otukpo-Nobi and Akpachi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of homes and other valuable property.

The Commission through its Managing Director/CEO Dr. Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil strongly condemns the senseless attacks and extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones, the injured, the affected communities, as well as the Government and people of Benue State over this painful tragedy.

This was contained in a statement on Monday by Dr. Makut Simon Macham, NCDC Head of Corporate Communications.

The NCDC notes that peace and security remain indispensable to sustainable development and warns that recurring acts of violence undermine efforts to improve the livelihoods of the people and accelerate the socio-economic transformation of the North Central region.

The Commission therefore calls on the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the attacks and ensure that they are brought to justice without delay. It also urges the authorities to take proactive measures to restore peace, strengthen security, and guarantee the protection of lives and property in the affected communities.

According to the MD, the NCDC stands in solidarity with the Government of Benue State and the affected communities during this difficult period. It prays for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased, speedy recovery for those injured, and lasting peace across Benue State and the entire North Central region.