The Benue State Police Command has reported a deadly attack on the Egwuma community in Agatu Local Government Area, believed to have been carried out by suspected herders on Monday. The tragic incident resulted in the loss of multiple lives.
State police public relations officer, SP Sewuese Anene, confirmed the attack to journalists in Makurdi, stating that five lives were lost. To maintain peace and security in the area, the command has deployed additional personnel.
However, Godwin Edoh, a member representing the Agatu constituency in the state House of Assembly, provided a more alarming figure, stating that 12 lives were claimed in the brutal attack. Edoh expressed deep sorrow over the continuous killings of his constituents and called for immediate and decisive actions from the government and security agencies to prevent further violence.
“Government has to be decisive about what to do about this area because it is so porous,” the lawmaker emphasized. He further highlighted the dire situation in villages such as Ogbumogbo, Ejima, and others down to Ikpele, which have been deserted for nearly a year due to fear of attacks.
Edoh explained that the herders exploit the deserted villages for grazing during the day, retreating in the evening, knowing that the local population has fled and security measures are inadequate. “The herders come over to the deserted villages with their cattle for grazing in the morning and leave in the evening. They are able to do this because the villagers had left their communities for fear of attacks, and the security agents are not doing enough to address this development,” he said.
The recurring violence has not only displaced numerous residents but has also left communities in a state of constant fear and instability. The lawmaker’s urgent plea underscores the need for robust security measures and proactive governmental intervention to safeguard the lives and properties of those in the affected areas.
The Benue State Police Command’s deployment of additional personnel is a step towards stabilizing the region, but the broader challenge remains. Ensuring long-term peace and security will require comprehensive strategies, including enhanced security presence, community engagement, and sustainable solutions to the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
