The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has expressed profound grief and concern over the reported attacks on the Otukpo-Nobi and Akpachi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attacks resulted in the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of homes and other valuable property.
The Managing Director of the NCDC, Dr Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, strongly condemned the senseless attacks and extended the Commission’s heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones, the injured, the affected communities, and the Government and people of Benue State over the tragedy.
The NCDC noted that peace and security remain indispensable to sustainable development and warned 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 called on the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the attacks and ensure they are brought to justice without delay.
It also urged 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 a statement by the Head of Corporate Communications, Dr Makut Simon Macham, the NCDC stands in solidarity with the Government of Benue State and the affected communities during this difficult period.
It prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased, the speedy recovery of those injured, and lasting peace across Benue State and the entire North Central region.