Benue Council Boss Vows Crackdown on Rampant Cult Killings

Benue Council Boss Vows Crackdown on Rampant Cult Killings

The Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State, Hon. Ormin Torsar Victor, has declared a firm stance against cult-related killings following a surge in violent attacks in Naka Town, the local government’s headquarters. During a condolence visit on Thursday, he condemned the recent wave of killings as “senseless and barbaric,” vowing decisive action to dismantle criminal networks behind the attacks. The chairman, accompanied by Divisional Police Officer DSP Gazma Chazam, visited affected families to assess the situation and offer reassurance to a traumatized community.

Naka has been gripped by fear after a series of violent incidents linked to suspected cult activities. Witnesses at the residence of youth leader Iorkohol Peter described a coordinated assault by over 20 teenagers, reportedly aged between 13 and 15, who stormed the compound armed with stones and pestles. The attack left several injured and further heightened tensions in the area. In another tragic incident, Tarbo Moses, known as “Hot Body,” succumbed to injuries sustained during an earlier attack despite being rushed to a private hospital for treatment.

Hon. Victor, visibly shaken by the events, emphasized that the government would no longer tolerate such violence. “We will not tolerate this anymore. Enough is enough,” he declared during his visit. He urged youths and traders in Naka to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies to help bring perpetrators to justice. The chairman also directed security operatives to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering in the area to prevent further attacks.

The rising insecurity in Naka has left families in mourning and residents living in fear. The local government chairman’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over youth involvement in violent acts and the lack of effective deterrence measures. His visit was seen as both a show of solidarity with victims and a clear message to criminals that lawlessness will not be tolerated.

Security agencies have been instructed to step up patrols and conduct thorough investigations into the attacks. The chairman stressed the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in identifying and apprehending suspects. He also called for the rehabilitation of errant youths to prevent future violence.

As Benue State continues to grapple with insecurity, the actions taken in Gwer West may serve as a model for other local governments facing similar challenges. The commitment to justice and peace in Naka signals a proactive approach to restoring order and protecting lives in the region.