Benue State Deputy Governor, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the residents of Asa II in Otukpo Local Government Area following a series of violent attacks that have unsettled the community.
During his visit, Dr. Ode paid a solemn visit to the family of the late Akatu Onche, a retired Comptroller of Immigration, who was tragically murdered by unknown gunmen in his home on Monday. The assailants struck around 7:45 pm, resulting in Mr. Onche’s death and the abduction of three individuals, including a couple, from his residence.
Prior to visiting the bereaved families, Dr. Ode convened a closed-door meeting at the palace of the paramount ruler of the Idoma Nation, HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu John Odogbo. The session included Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Hon. Maxwell Ogiri; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Musa Ujor; Gubernatorial Liaison Officer to the Governor in charge of Otukpo, Hon. Agbo Uloko; and security chiefs from the Army, Police, Civil Defence, and Department of State Services (DSS). Representing Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Dr. Ode charged the security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and security in the area.
Following the meeting, the Deputy Governor also paid homage to the Och’Otukpo, HRH John Eimonye, expressing his sympathy for the devastating incidents that have rocked the community.
Dr. Ode reassured the residents of Asa II and surrounding communities that the state government is committed to ensuring their safety and will take all necessary measures to apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous acts. He urged the community to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to restore peace and normalcy to the area.
