Senator Moro Moves Motion for Security Boost in Benue Communities

The Senate has called for urgent security intervention following a series of deadly attacks by suspected bandits on Akpachi-Ugboju, Otukpo-Nobi and Ondo Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Leading a motion on the floor of the Senate, Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, expressed deep concern over the attacks, which occurred between last Friday, Sunday and Tuesday.

He said the assaults claimed 20 lives, including two persons in Akpachi-Ugboju, 16 in Otukpo-Nobi and two others in the fresh attack on Ondo Ugboju. He added that many residents sustained serious injuries, while homes, properties and farmlands were destroyed, forcing survivors to flee their communities.

Senator Moro noted that the continued attacks have created fear, widespread displacement and a growing humanitarian crisis. He warned that if urgent security measures are not taken, the situation could worsen, leading to a breakdown of law and order and a looming food crisis as farmers abandon their farmlands.

The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims and condemned the killings and destruction of property.

It also urged the Inspector General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff and other security agencies to deploy more personnel to the affected communities, investigate the attacks, arrest and prosecute those responsible, while directing NEMA and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to provide relief materials to displaced persons and injured victims.

The Senate further mandated its Committees on Police Affairs, Defence, and National Security and Intelligence to engage security agencies and ensure compliance with its resolutions.