A community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State where several innocent residents have been killed, including the recent attack which about 18 defenceless citizens were gruesomely murdered in cold blood, at the early hours of Saturday, 20th July 2024.

The group said the continuous targeted attacks on Harga, and other places in Shitile land is an indication of a complete breakdown of law and order and urged government at all levels to step up security around Shitile, and indeed Sankera axis to protect lives and property.

Jeremy Bentham said the essence of government is utilitarianism.

SIG bemoaned the manner where lives of their kinsmen are brazenly wasted in a horrendous manner and called on the government to ensure that perpetrators of the heinous crime are made to face the full wrath of the law.

"We condemned in its entirety, this act of barbarism where innocent people are slaughtered, murdered like animals within Shitile land. This shameful, inhumane, criminal behavior have continued unabated for some years leading to herriofic deaths as well as the destruction of socioeconomic and educational activities.

"We also want to state emphatically that such acts are inhumane, ungodly, and must stop now!

SIG, note with utmost dismay, the violation of all international protocols and municipal law, especially the fourth (4) Geneva convention of 1949 which protects Civilians and civil objects from harm even in a war situation, talk less of peace time.

"It is, therefore, surprising to us that innocent blood of peaceful citizens is being wasted without adequate machinery on ground to contend the renigants.

"We use this medium to appeal to those behind these murderous activities to eschew violence and embrace peace for the growth and development of Shitile nation, both in Taraba and Benue States respectively.

"It's very important for the youth to understand that issues are resolved through dialogue.

"SIG wishes to commend His Excellency, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, for his efforts towards ending the menace and urge him not to relent on his oars.

"We are aware of the government approval for the deployment of a Police Mobile Force to Harga to quell the crises.

"While we acknowledge the many initiatives of the governor in this regard, we most respectfully request the government to seek for a holistic approach to end these wanton killings and destruction of lives and property.

"We equally call on the traditional institutions in Shitile and Sankera intermediate area to take necessary measures, in conjunction with the political class, and other stakeholders, towards bringing this sad narrative to an end.

"We sincerely commiserate with the families of victims of the attacks, the Mbacher community, Shitile nation and indeed Katsina-Ala LGA.

"May the good lord, in his infinity mercy, restore peace to Shitile land."