David Mark, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, has spoken out regarding the recent surge in violence in Benue State, insisting that the victims deserve justice. According to Mark, those responsible for terrorizing local communities must be prosecuted to ensure lasting peace.
Through his media aide, Kola Ologbondiyan, the ADC leader urged the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive steps to end the wave of abductions and homicides currently affecting Benue and Plateau states. This plea follows recent attacks that claimed 16 lives in the Otukpo region of Benue and nine individuals in the Riyom area of Plateau, allegedly at the hands of armed militias.
Mark emphasized that the primary duty of any government is the protection of its citizens. He stated that the current lack of security is unacceptable and emboldens criminals. He called upon the Nigerian Armed Forces, the police, and the Department of State Services to improve intelligence gathering and increase their presence in vulnerable areas. Furthermore, he requested an immediate search-and-rescue mission for passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus.
The ADC Chairman concluded by calling for an end to the culture of impunity, stating that the federal government must address the deteriorating security situation with urgency rather than empty promises. He reiterated that citizens should not be forced to endure such violence and that perpetrators must face the full consequences of the law.
