By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has strongly condemned the shooting of a Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongu and the abduction of two others by armed Fulani herdsmen along the Makurdi-Naka Road.
Chairman of APC in Benue State, Comrade Austin Agada, in a statement signed by the Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Daniel Morgan Ihomun called for the immediate and unconditional release of the two kidnapped victims.
The APC said it is deeply disturbed by the growing pattern of unprovoked attacks and killings in Benue State, particularly targeting innocent citizens and religious leaders. The party expressed the belief that the attacks were part of a genocidal agenda to displace people from their ancestral lands.
The APC demands a comprehensive strategy from the government to safeguard lives and properties in the state, as continued inaction only emboldens the perpetrators.
The statement reads in part. "The party is standing in solidarity with the Catholic Church, affected families, and all communities under threat".
It added that the suffering and sacrifices of Rev. Fr. Atongu and others must not be in vain, "as the APC calls for an end to the violence and bloodshed in Benue State".
In a related development, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has denounced the recent shooting of Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongu by herder terrorists on the Makurdi-Naka road.
The Governor also condemned the attacks on Tse-Orbiam and Ahume communities in Gwer-West LGA, where numerous casualties have been reported.
Governor Alia expressed his shock and sadness at the violence that has taken place near a military checkpoint, highlighting the pervasive lawlessness in the area.
He prayed God for the priest's survival and stands in solidarity with the Catholic Community in praying for his quick recovery.
The Governor vows to protect the people of Benue State and support the traditional institution's efforts to remove criminal herders and terrorists from the state.
He urged security forces to swiftly apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the heinous acts, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of all residents.
Governor Alia urged unity in eradicating violence and creating safe communities for everyone, and directed security agencies to rescue the kidnapped individuals associated with the recent attack and appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The Governor extended condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in peace.
At least, more than twelve relatives of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe were killed on Sunday at Aondona Village,
Gwer West Local Government of Benue State.
