The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has debunked reports circulating in some media outlets that suspected herdsmen recently launched deadly attacks in Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, the hometown of Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
In a statement issued on Saturday by Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the SGF, the office described the reports as “false, misleading, and concocted,” noting that they were designed to stir panic and misinform the public.
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According to the statement, while there was an incident in Wannune, it was not related to herdsmen attacks. Rather, it involved the killing of Mr. Aondoakaa Yaiyol, a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Tarka and Commander of the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Services in the area. He was reportedly assassinated by unidentified gunmen on Friday night.
“The location, timing, and manner of his killing clearly show that it was a case of assassination and not in any way connected with the herdsmen that have been causing mayhem in the state,” the statement emphasized.
The Benue State Police Command has also confirmed that the incident was not perpetrated by armed herders, and investigations are underway to apprehend those responsible.
The SGF’s office urged the media to exercise responsibility and verify facts before publishing, warning against the spread of misinformation that could escalate tensions.
Senator Akume’s office further reassured the people of Benue State that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is taking steps to address security challenges in the state and restore lasting peace.
“We call on the people to remain calm and vigilant as the situation is under control,” the statement concluded.
