Scores of residents have been killed in an attack on the Efeyi community in Ugboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area by suspected armed herders.

The gunmen were said to have attacked the community in the early hours of Tuesday.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State condemned the killing in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Tersoo Kula.

Mr Alia said the attackers must pay for their crime against the peaceful people of the state.

The governor thanked the Benue State police command, under the leadership of CP Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, for its quick response, which resulted in the neutralisation of two armed bandits suspected to have taken part in the attack.

“Scores of persons have been murdered, with many others sustaining various degrees of injury, as suspected armed herdsmen launched yet another attack on the Efeyi community in Ugboju district of Otukpo LGA of Benue State,” he said.

He said following reports of the incident, personnel of the Benue State police command were deployed to track down the armed bandits.

“A fire exchange occurred as the police closed in on the bandits, and two of the bandits who were apparently manned to provide cover for the others to escape got neutralised,” he added.

The governor said his administration would continue to support security agencies to ensure that those who attack the state are brought to justice.

“Benue land is for Benue people. Those who think they can come and push the people away and take over should think twice.

“Our people are peaceful, hardworking and peaceful. I was elected to protect them, and I must do everything legitimately possible to ensure my people are protected and our land is secured,” he said.