Senate Urges Urgent Action to End Insecurity in Benue State

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigerian Senate has called for immediate intervention by security agencies to address the rising insecurity in Benue State, following a series of violent attacks that have resulted in multiple deaths and mass displacement.

The resolution followed a motion by Senator Titus Zam (Benue North-West), who raised alarm over the escalating violence in the state. He attributed the attacks to terrorists disguised as herdsmen, revealing that entire communities, including Jaruwa and its surroundings, had been razed. He noted that residents were either killed or missing, while survivors—mostly women, children, and the elderly—were forced to flee their homes.

Supporting the motion, Senator Abba Moro (Benue South) condemned the unrelenting attacks, describing the situation as critical and requiring urgent intervention. He warned that the ongoing crisis, particularly the conflicts between farmers and herders, posed a serious threat to the stability of the state and the nation’s food security.

In response, the Senate mandated security agencies to intensify operations to secure the affected communities and restore law and order. Lawmakers also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide immediate relief materials to displaced persons.

Furthermore, the Senate directed its National Security Committee to conduct an on-site assessment of the crisis, particularly its impact on agriculture and food production in Benue State.

In a show of solidarity with the affected communities, the Senate observed a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in the attacks. Lawmakers also resolved to summon security agencies for discussions on finding lasting solutions to the recurring violence.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio reiterated the chamber’s commitment to ensuring peace in Benue State, calling for swift and coordinated efforts by both federal and state governments to end the escalating insecurity.