No fewer than 22 bodies have been recovered following a deadly attack on communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, a member of the House of Representatives, Solomon Wombo, has disclosed.
Wombo, who represents the Logo, Ukum and Katsina Ala Federal Constituency, said the victims were killed when armed men invaded parts of the Mbaterem communities in the early hours of Sunday.
The attack reportedly occurred around 5am, with Ayaba, Ukpen, Bom, Abaoajio and Yina among the communities affected.
The lawmaker condemned the incident, describing the killings as inhuman and unacceptable, while expressing sympathy to the families of those who lost their loved ones.
Wombo urged security agencies to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice.
He also appealed to residents of the affected communities to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.
According to him, retaliatory attacks would only deepen the crisis and lead to further loss of lives.
“We must pursue justice through lawful and legitimate means,” the lawmaker advised.
He also commiserated with the injured and displaced residents, assuring the affected communities of his solidarity at the difficult time.