The Executive Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area, Hon. Jonathan Modi, has expressed sorrow over the killing of security personnel who were ambushed during a joint clearance operation in Katsina-Ala, Benue State.

In a condolence message issued on Sunday, September 21, 2025, the chairman sympathized with the Nigerian Police Force, the Civil Protection Guards, and the Nigerian Hunters Council following the tragic loss of their men.

Ekwutosblog reported that officers attached to Operation Anyam Nyor were attacked on Friday by suspected herders and militia groups in Mbatyula, Agu Centre, Katsina-Ala LGA.

Reports indicate that about 13 officers remain missing, while three bodies have so far been recovered.

Among the missing is ASP Danlami Usman, popularly known as Dan Zuru, who served as the Bush Commander of the operation. Several other personnel reportedly sustained injuries.

Hon. Modi described the slain officers as gallant heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the people.

He strongly condemned the attack, labeling it “barbaric, unacceptable, and a gross violation of law and order.”

While praying for the peaceful repose of the departed and speedy recovery of the wounded, the chairman reassured residents of his administration’s continued support for security agencies in the ongoing efforts to restore peace across the region.

The Senior Special Assistant on Humanitarian Services to Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, Muhammed Egye Osolafia, who is popularly known as Deedat, has allegedly been kidnapped by gunmen.

The governor’s aide, Osolafia, was said to have been kidnapped upon arriving at his residence in Tudun Amba area of Lafia, the state capital, on Saturday night.

The gunmen were said to have reportedly arrived in the area, shooting sporadically into the air to put fear in residents nearby before heading straight for their target.

Mr. Peter Ahemba, who is the Senior Special Adviser to Governor Sule on Public Affairs, confirmed the development to Daily Post, describing it as sad and unfortunate.

He explained that he received the news of the abduction from another colleague.

Osolafia’s abduction came about two months after the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Culture, Barrister Yusuf Musa, was similarly abducted from his residence in Ungwan Nungu, also in Lafia.

SP Ramhan Nansel, the Police Public Relations Officer, could not be reached for comment on the incident.

Residents of Matazu Local Government Area have raised concerns following a peace dialogue held on Saturday between community leaders, Islamic clerics, and notorious bandit groups in the area.

Eyewitnesses reported that a notorious bandit leader attended the meeting armed with Rocket-Propelled Grenades, RPGs, General Machine Guns, GMGs, and AK-47 rifles, sparking anxiety among residents who continue to suffer frequent attacks.

Community leaders and clerics present at the talks expressed shock at the display of sophisticated weapons during what was meant to be a peace initiative.

“You came to a peace talk with AK-47 rifles, RPGs, and GMGs, and you return to the bush with the same weapons.

“How can this be called a peace deal?” a community leader asked, lamenting the recurring attacks that often escalate after such dialogues.

The clerics and local authorities stressed that for any genuine peace process to succeed, all parties must commit to laying down their arms without preconditions, prioritising the safety and security of residents above personal or group interests.

Residents further urged the government and security agencies to adopt stronger measures to ensure that future negotiations result in sustainable peace in the region.