The Benue Democratic Ambassadors (BEDA) have raised alarm over a surge of violent attacks by armed herdsmen across Benue State, warning that over 20 of the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) are currently under siege by these invaders.
Addressing the media in Makurdi, BEDA’s National President, Mr. Daniel Pila, lamented the worsening security situation, accusing the government of failing to take effective measures to protect the state and its citizens from the deadly rampage of the herdsmen.
Pila expressed particular concern over a recent attack on Aondona, the hometown of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Reverend Wilfred Anagbe.
The assault, which claimed numerous lives, occurred just days after Bishop Anagbe spoke before the United States House of Representatives’ Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa.
During the hearing in the US, the Bishop detailed the plight of Christians in Nigeria and the escalating violence in Benue, urging the American government to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.”
BEDA, a coalition comprising professionals from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations, described the attack on Aondona as especially disturbing.
They highlighted that Aondona lies near Raav, a location where the state governor has proposed establishing a cattle ranch, and emphasized the significance of the Bishop’s connection to the area.
“Bishop Anagbe recently addressed the global community on the killings of Christians, particularly in Central Nigeria, a speech that has provoked threats against him,” the group stated.
“We call on the Federal Government to thoroughly investigate the killings in Benue, especially the attack on Catholic priest Reverend Father Atongo and the wider assault on the faithful,” it added.
While criticizing Governor Hyacinth Alia for inadequate action against insecurity, BEDA appealed to all stakeholders to put aside political differences and unite in restoring peace to the state.
“Benue is effectively under siege; no part of the state is safe, including the capital, Makurdi. From Otukpo to Agatu, Gwer-West to Kwande, Makurdi to Ukum, Gwer-East to Katsina-Ala, and Guma to Logo, armed herdsmen have taken control of at least 20 of the 23 LGAs.
“Our people have nowhere safe to turn,” the statement said.
On the state government’s developmental efforts, BEDA also expressed disappointment, accusing the Governor of abandoning all initiated projects.
They cited stalled road works including Ishaya Bakut, Iyorchia Ayu, and Vaatia College roads, noting that Makurdi has become “painfully dirty.”
Responding to the allegations, Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, dismissed BEDA’s claims as baseless.
He stated, “Previously, people closed their businesses early out of fear due to insecurity. Today, people stay longer to conduct their commercial activities, which reflects the current security improvements in Benue State.”
Kula added that the Governor had recently flagged off 16 urban road projects in the state capital, completed them, and awarded contracts for 20 more.
“Several infrastructural projects are ongoing across the state. Teachers in Benue are motivated, and schools now provide a conducive environment for learning thanks to significant improvements in educational facilities,” he said.
