Senate Demands Urgent Security Overhaul After 113 Killed In Benue Attacks

Senate Demands Urgent Security Overhaul After 113 Killed in Benue Attacks The Nigerian Senate has called for an urgent overhaul of security operations following the reported killing of 113 people in four separate attacks on communities in Benue State. The lawmakers urged the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to strengthen military and police operations, improve intelligence gathering and ensure that those responsible for the killings are brought to justice. The attacks occurred in Sai community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area; Bom and Aboajio villages in Ukum; Ayilamo in Logo; and Tse Biliji and Tse Shishi Nyako villages in Ukum. Presenting a motion on the killings, Senator Emmanuel Memga Udende, who represents Benue North-East, said 24 people were reportedly killed in Sai, while 63 died in the attacks on Bom and Aboajio. He added that another 15 people, including six Mobile Police personnel, were killed in Ayilamo, while 11 others died in an attack on Tse Biliji and Tse Shishi Nyako villages on October 8. The recurring violence has reportedly destroyed property, disrupted farming and other economic activities, and heightened fears of displacement among residents of the affected communities. Seconding the motion, Senator Jide Ipinshagba expressed concern over the killing of security personnel, questioning the safety of civilians who depend on them for protection. Following deliberations, the Senate urged the Federal Government to take immediate measures to stop further attacks in Ukum, Katsina-Ala, Logo and other vulnerable communities across Benue State. It also called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Army Staff and heads of relevant security and intelligence agencies to increase personnel deployment, provide adequate operational resources and strengthen intelligence gathering. The lawmakers further demanded effective early-warning systems and rapid-response mechanisms to enable security agencies to identify threats and intervene before more lives are lost. They also called for thorough investigations and the prosecution of those found responsible. Beyond security measures, the Senate expressed concern over the humanitarian impact of the attacks, particularly the destruction of homes, loss of livelihoods and displacement of residents. It urged the National Emergency Management Agency to work with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency and other relevant authorities to provide relief materials and assistance to affected families. Senate President Godswill Akpabio also directed the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence to engage relevant agencies to identify measures for strengthening security operations and personnel deployment in the affected areas. The Senate’s intervention comes amid renewed calls for coordinated action to protect vulnerable communities, prevent further bloodshed and provide support to victims of the attacks.