Grave Concerns: Benue Lawmaker Condemns Unchecked Violence In Constituency

In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Onuh expressed her frustration over the senseless killings of innocent citizens in her constituency, criticizing security agencies for their lack of effective response. She pointed out that after each attack, state and local officials only release statements claiming to be addressing the issue, with no real action taken.

Onuh called on President Tinubu to instruct security agencies to step up their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, bring them to justice, and restore peace to the affected communities.

Recalling recent tragedies, Onuh mentioned the brutal murder of retired customs officer Onche Akatu in the Asa 2 community of Otukpo Local Government Area, during which two members of his family were also abducted.

“The killings in my constituency have reached an unbearable level in recent weeks. Every day, we are faced with the senseless murder of innocent people, and tragically, it is beginning to feel like it’s becoming the norm,” she said.

“I cannot understand why people continue to be killed and abducted without any consequences for the perpetrators. After each attack, all we hear from security agencies in Makurdi and Otukpo is that they are ‘on top of the situation,’ but nothing ever changes. Families grieve for their loved ones, return to their homes, and brace themselves for the next attack by suspected herdsmen,” she added.

The lawmaker expressed particular sorrow over the fact that two family members of the murdered man were abducted, questioning, “Should the deceased now rise to pay the ransom for their release? My heart bleeds.”

Onuh also highlighted the tragic case of nursing mother Felicia Ochigbo, who was murdered in the Old NTA Area of the Asa community, as well as the killing of another resident, an Igbo man.

“Last month in Okpomoju Community, Okete Ward of Otukpo Local Government Area, suspected herdsmen killed five men, leaving the community in mourning. According to sources, these herdsmen are even threatening people over the phone. As I speak now, residents are fleeing their communities, unsure of whether anywhere they go will be safe,” she added.

“Are these killers above the law? Why is it so difficult to arrest them and restore peace so that our people can sleep soundly?” Onuh questioned.