Benue lawmaker calls on president Tinubu to address escalating violence in Otukpo

Blessing Onuh, the lawmaker representing Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has raised an urgent call for intervention from President Bola Tinubu regarding the growing insecurity in Otukpo, Benue State.

Onuh described the ongoing attacks and killings as a national emergency that requires immediate and serious attention from the federal government.
The lawmaker expressed her deep concern over the alarming frequency of violent incidents in her constituency, citing the recent brutal murder of a retired customs officer, Onche Akatu, in Asa 2 community. Two members of Akatu's family were also abducted during the attack.

Additionally, Onuh highlighted the senseless killing of Mrs. Felicia Ochigbo, a nursing mother, in the Old NTA Area of Asa, and the murder of an Igbo man in the community. Just last month, in Okpomoju Community in Okete Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area, suspected herdsmen killed five men, which has led to widespread panic.

Onuh also pointed out that these killings and kidnappings have become so frequent that it now feels as though they have become a sad norm.

She expressed frustration with the perceived inaction of security agencies, noting that after each attack, officials at both the state and local levels merely issue statements declaring that they are “on top of the matter,” but no real action is taken.

She questioned why the perpetrators are not being apprehended and why peace is not being restored, allowing residents to live without fear.

The lawmaker further expressed that the constant insecurity has forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands, leading to a worsening food shortage in the region. With many residents now fleeing their homes to escape the violence, Onuh stressed the growing sense of fear among her people.

Onuh appealed to President Tinubu to take decisive action by directing security forces to intensify efforts to arrest the culprits and bring them to justice.

She also pleaded with her constituents, particularly the youth, to avoid taking matters into their own hands through jungle justice or reprisal attacks, as this would only make the situation worse.

Onuh reassured her people that she would continue to work closely with political leaders and security agencies to ensure that these heinous acts are brought to an end, and peace is restored in Otukpo and surrounding areas. She emphasized that the people deserve to live in peace and safety.