Makurdi: Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue has condemned the murder of two travellers in the Agan community of Makurdi by hoodlums.
The governor condemned the criminal act in a statement issued on Tuesday in Makurdi by his chief press secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula.
Alia, who described the act as “barbaric and unacceptable,” said that five suspects had been arrested in connection with the crime.
He said the deceased was travelling through Benue from the northern part of the country.
“I’m deeply saddened by the murder of two persons who were travelling through Benue from Kano state by some criminal elements.
“Benue people are known for their hospitality and peaceful disposition.
“We cannot allow some criminal elements to tarnish our good image and create a contrary one for our people.
“These criminals must be caught immediately and made to face the full wrath of the law,” Kula quoted Alia as saying.
The governor condoled with Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano state and the immediate families of deceased persons over the tragic and regrettable loss.
“Earlier in the day, I spoke with my brother, Gov. Abba Yusuf, over the unfortunate incident.
“We are working closely towards ensuring that this incident doesn’t escalate into a security breach in any part of the country,” he said.
Alia, who appealed for calm, assured Nigerians that those behind the criminal act would face justice.