Middle Belt Forum Condemns Killing Of 25 In Agatu Church By Herdsmen

BY SEGUN ADEBAYO, ABUJA – The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has condemned the recent barbaric killings of 25 people by suspected herdsmen during a church service in Agatu in Benue State, and called on the security agencies to rise up to the task of ensuring the safety of lives and properties.

According to a press statement by the Forum’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr Isuwa Dogo, persons behind the  coldblooded murder of the worshipers should never be allowed to go unpunished, and called on relevant security agencies of the Federal Government to apprehend and prosecute those behind the heinous act.

“The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) condemns in strong terms the barbaric massacre by suspected Fulani herdsmen of 25 people on Sunday June 30, 2019 during a church service in Okokolo village in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue state.

“It is quite regrettable that this unprovoked attack on worshipers brings back the sad memory of previous attacks on Agatu and several other parts of Benue state that led to the death of hundreds of people and displacement of thousands now languishing in Internally Displaced Person (IDP) camps. It is more regrettable that in spite of these series of attacks, the security agencies are yet to arrest and prosecute any of these perpetrators.

“Again, we call on the Nigeria Police and other relevant security agencies not to leave any stone unturned to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime against humanity are not allowed to go unpunished as witnessed in the past.”

The MBF also commiserated with the people and government of Benue state over the recent petrol tanker incident that led to the loss of no fewer than 50 persons, with over 100 injured in the state.

According to the statement, “Also, the Forum commiserates with the people and government of Benue State over the unfortunate tragedy that led to the loss of no fewer than 50 lives and over 100 persons injured during the petrol tanker incident that took place at Ahumbe village along Makurdi-Aliade-Utukpo road in Gwer West Local Government Area.

“These tragedies are one too many in a state that has continued to witness such pathetic occurrences without respite. We pray for the repose of those killed and comfort to the bereaved families, people and government of Benue State.”