Senator David Mark, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has demanded immediate and concrete government action to halt the persistent violence in Benue and Plateau states. Addressing the recent loss of 16 lives in Otukpo and nine in Riyom, the former Senate President emphasized that empty promises are no longer sufficient to ensure public safety.
Through a statement released by his aide, Kola Ologbondiyan, Mark condemned the recent abduction of passengers from a Benue Links bus. He urged security forces to prioritize search-and-rescue efforts while intensifying intelligence operations and monitoring of high-risk areas. Mark labeled these attacks as barbaric, warning that the ongoing climate of impunity threatens national stability.
He underscored that the protection of citizens is a core constitutional obligation of the state. Mark called for a coordinated response involving the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, and the Department of State Services to apprehend those responsible. Furthermore, he encouraged local stakeholders, including traditional and community leaders, to assist security agencies by sharing intelligence to prevent further tragedies.
