The House of Representatives Member representing the Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, Arc. Dr. Asema Achado, says the sustained attacks and killings of innocent people in Benue State represent a deeply troubling and unacceptable emergency that cannot be overlooked. He wonders why the government of the state, led by Governor Hyacinth Alia, has chosen to downplay the gravity of the situation and is instead engrossed in denials.
Hon. Dr. Achado describes it as sad and unfortunate, that a government the people of the state overwhelmingly voted for has turned its back on them and has been defending and absolving their enemies from any form of blame in the attacks and killings.
He points out that many local governments in Benue State are facing attacks by armed herders, with thousands of people displaced, many killed, and property worth billions destroyed. He maintains that the attacks are unprovoked and systematic, leaving families in mourning and communities engulfed in constant fear.
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Hon. Achado stresses that, contrary to Governor Alia’s claims, multiple reports and testimonies from affected families and community leaders have consistently pointed to the involvement of armed herders in the attacks that have plagued the state. He emphasizes the importance of confronting the truth to find lasting solutions to these crises.
To underscore the gravity of the situation and draw attention to the plight of the victims, Dr. Achado calls upon families who have lost loved ones in these tragic incidents to take a bold stand, by taking the corpses of those who have been killed to the headquarters of their local governments. He believes that the act of displaying the dead bodies would serve as confirmation of the situation, compelling both the local government, state government, federal government and the international community to recognize the urgent need for action.
Dr. Achado says it is critical to acknowledge the reality of the wave of insecurity in the state and confront the challenges head-on, rather than denying them.
Dr. Achado commends the Bishop of Katsina-Ala Catholic Diocese, Bishop Isaac Dugu, who recently spoke against the attacks and urged the Benue State Government to sit up and defend the people. He says Bishop Dugu demonstrated courage and a humane disposition where others chose to hide the truth.
Dr. Achado reiterates that violence against innocent citizens is intolerable. The Federal lawmaker stands in solidarity with the families of the victims and remains committed to advocating for justice and peace in the state and once again calls on Governor Alia to enforce the Benue State Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, 2017.
Mendah Manasseh
Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity
Arc. (Dr.) Asema Achado
House of Representatives Member, Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency
4th March, 2025.
