The Nigerian Senate has formally requested that Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, and Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, immediately dispatch security forces to Akpachi-Ugboju, Otukpo-Nobi, and Ondo Ugboju. This directive follows a wave of violent attacks by armed bandits that resulted in at least 20 deaths within Benue State. Lawmakers have ordered a comprehensive police investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence.
Senator Abba Moro, who sponsored the motion, highlighted the critical humanitarian situation created by these incidents. The Senate has directed the National Emergency Management Agency to provide urgent aid, including food and medical supplies, to displaced survivors. Furthermore, Senate committees have been tasked with overseeing the operational effectiveness of security forces in the region.
During a press briefing, Senator Moro expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of state-run police forces, noting that many states struggle to fund existing volunteer security groups. He criticized government officials for prioritizing reactive relief efforts over proactive security measures. Moro warned that if the government fails to secure these agrarian communities, local residents may eventually feel compelled to pursue their own defense, emphasizing that current legislative condemnations are insufficient to stop the ongoing cycle of violence and displacement.
