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By Tracy Moses
The House of Representatives has raised alarm over the worsening security situation in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, strongly condemning the recent spate of killings and destruction of property.
The resolution of the House followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Blessing Onuh, representing Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, Benue State during plenary on Tuesday.
She lamented the devastating impact of the persistent attacks on the affected communities, describing them as a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and regional stability.
Hon. Onuh painted a grim picture of the current situation in Otukpo, an ancient town and key commercial centre that links Benue State to Nigeria’s eastern region. She noted that the area, once celebrated for its peace and hospitality, has become a flashpoint for violent incursions, especially in its rural communities.
Among the hardest-hit areas, according to the lawmaker, are Asa 2, Akpa/Otobi, Adoka/Ugboju, Okpomaju, and Amichi. She disclosed that several lives have been lost in the attacks, including that of a retired senior customs officer, while thousands have been forced to flee their homes and now take shelter in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
Hon. Onuh further warned that the continued onslaught has crippled agricultural activities in these predominantly farming communities, threatening not only local food production but also national food security.
In response to the motion, the House condemned in strong terms the gruesome killings and wanton destruction in Otukpo and neighboring areas. Lawmakers called on the National Security Adviser and the Service Chiefs to urgently deploy adequate security forces to the affected communities to restore peace and protect residents.
The House also urged relevant security agencies to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible for the attacks to serve as a deterrent and to ensure justice for the victims.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, members of the House underscored the need for a coordinated and sustained security intervention to halt further bloodshed, secure property, and pave the way for the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.