Herdsmen killings: Olofu seeks FG Intervention in Benue South

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

A senatorial hopeful for Benue South Senatorial District, Dr. David Olofu, has called on Federal Government to  demonstrate immediate  political will and unwavering commitment in addressing the pernicious scourge of herdsmen attacks on some  communities in the district.

Dr. Olofu  in a statement he personally issued, expressed sincere concern over the recently unprovoked attacks on the Anwule-Oglewu community in Ohimini Local Government Area and Rijo community in Ado Local Government Area of the State that  had resulted to the tragic loss of so many lives and wanton destruction of property worth millions of naira.

Dr. Olofu, who is vying for the Senatorial seat of Benue South under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2027, however urged the Federal Government to exhibit a heightened sense of seriousness and purpose in tackling this menace, which has assumed alarming proportions. 

The former commissioner for finance equally enjoined the Benue State government to demonstrate greater concern and commitment towards addressing the menace.

"This unbridled attacks by suspected murderous herdsmen have put vulnerable communities in Benue South Senatorial District perpetual targets.

"The situation is unacceptable and must be stopped by the Federal Government", emphasizing that those responsible for internal security must rise to the challenge and stem the tide of violence, which has assumed the proportion of a hydra-headed monster.

"I therefore advocates  for community policing by the youth in various communities in view of the inability of security agencies to effectively safeguard communities.  The youth and able-bodied men should form vigilante groups to protect their communities.

"Remember, security is every man's business and should no longer be relinquished to government alone, we are left with the difficult option of taking our destinies into our hands".

He regretted that the governments have not done enough to inspire the confidence of the people - a quagmire that has created a state of quandary. 

He commiserated with the people of Anwule-Oglewu and Rijo over the unfortunate attacks and called on the Federal Government to not only halt the carnage but also arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

The Senatorial contender further appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials for the affected victims in the affected communities to ameliorate their plight.