The Senate has called for urgent deployment of more troops to Benue State to curb escalating violence following a fresh wave of bandit attacks in Gwer-West Local Government Area.
Lawmakers raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation, warning that continued inaction could lead to further unrest..
During plenary on Wednesday, Sen. Titus Zam, APC-Benue, raised concerns over the March 10 attack that left four people dead, sparking violent protests.
Credible News recalls that irate youths, frustrated by the continued insecurity, set fire to the local government secretariat, the palace of the traditional ruler, and homes of prominent residents, accusing them of failing to protect the community.
Zam lamented that despite the state’s open grazing prohibition law, lack of enforcement has worsened insecurity, exposing lawmakers to criticism from their constituents. He warned that the violence threatens food production and the livelihoods of local farmers.
Backing the motion, Sen. Abba Moro, PDP-Benue, criticised the state government’s inaction, stressing that citizens, feeling abandoned, are now turning their anger on their own leaders. He urged immediate intervention to prevent further escalation.
The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims and called on the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials to affected communities.
Lawmakers also mandated the Committee on National Security to visit the area for an assessment.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured that security in Benue would be a key agenda in upcoming discussions with security agencies.
NAN
