BENUE ASSEMBLY COMMENDS ALIA OVER RESPONSE TO KWANDE ATTACKS. (PHOTO).

 BENUE ASSEMBLY COMMENDS ALIA OVER RESPONSE TO KWANDE ATTACKS 

The Benue State House of Assembly on Friday commended Gov. Hyacinth Alia for his swift response to the recent violent attacks on some communities in Kwande Local Government Area of the state.

The commendation followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Kwande East State Constituency, Mr Anyor Mato, during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Mr Berger Alfred Emberga.

Mato informed the House that suspected armed militia herdsmen invaded Nyihemba, Anwase and Abande communities, killing 13 civilians and two police officers, while several residents were displaced.

According to him, the governor visited the affected communities shortly after receiving reports of the incident to assess the situation and sympathise with the bereaved families.

He said Alia also ordered the construction of a road linking Nyihemba, Anwase and Abande communities during the visit and reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in the state.

The House condemned the attack and called on security agencies to redouble their efforts to prevent further violence and protect lives and property.

Lawmakers also directed the relocation of military checkpoints from Jato-Aka to Ikyoughu and Ashikaa communities to strengthen security in the area.

In a related development, the House urged the state government to assist traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at Aliade Market through the provision of relief materials and financial support.

Meanwhile, two members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr James Abu Omoru (Apa) and Mr Moses Egbodo (Obi), defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defectors said their decision was informed by the leadership style of Gov. Alia and the Speaker. Their defection increases APC’s membership in the 32-member Assembly to 28.