The House of Representatives Wednesday urged the federal government to urgently deploy security personnel to Apa and Agatu communities in Benue state to curb persistent attacks by unidentified gunmen.
It called on the Nigerian Army, Police Force, Air Force, and other relevant security agencies to urgently deploy personnel to the affected areas, particularly the desolate communities, to mount surveillance, prevent further attacks, and conduct clearance operations to restore security and normalcy.
The lower chamber also urged the military to establish a substantial military base in the affected areas to restore peace and prevent further attacks. Additionally, it called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to swiftly set up well-equipped and adequate Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the Apa/Agatu federal constituency to provide immediate relief and support to those affected.
This resolution followed a motion sponsored by Ojema Ojotu (PDP, Benue) under matters of urgent national importance.
Presenting the motion, Ojotu lamented the escalating attacks, which have resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of residents, and destruction of property in the affected communities.
He noted that the assailants, yet to be identified, have continued to unleash terror with little or no resistance, leaving the communities in a state of fear and insecurity.
The lawmaker expressed displeasure at the tragic turn of events, particularly the horrifying attacks that occurred on October 1, 2024, a day meant for celebrating Nigeria’s Independence.
Describing the incident as “An Armageddon for residents of the constituency,” Ojotu noted that invaders targeted an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, slaughtering those who had only recently returned to their ancestral lands.
“These victims, displaced by previous conflicts, had returned home to cultivate crops ahead of the dry season,” Ojotu stated, adding that the attacks have left survivors traumatized and the community devastated.
He said, “Another attack has occurred in the federal constituency, targeting communities such as Egwuma, Olagbani, Okwutanobe, and Ogwule Ankpa in Agatu local government area. This assault has resulted in significant loss of lives and the destruction of properties valued at millions of naira.
“Despite repeated appeals for government intervention to put an end to these relentless and unprovoked attacks, the killings persist unabated. Survivors are left displaced and homeless, wandering in search of refuge.”
In adopting the motion, the lawmakers observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims of recent attacks in Apa/Agatu federal constituency.
