Senator Abba Moro Moves Motion on Otukpo Killings, Demands Heavy Security Deployment in Benue

Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South Senatorial District and serving as Senate Minority Leader, has moved a motion in the Senate addressing the recent wave of violent attacks on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

The motion, titled “Motion on the Urgent Need to Stop the Gruesome Murder of Inhabitants of Akpachi-Ugboju, Otukpo-Nobi and the Fresh Attacks on Ondo Ugboju in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State by Suspected Bandits,” highlights renewed assaults that occurred between Friday, Sunday, and Tuesday. Armed bandits targeted Akpachi-Ugboju, Otukpo-Nobi, and Ondo Ugboju communities, resulting in the death of approximately 20 persons, displacement of residents, and destruction of properties worth millions of naira.

In his presentation, Senator Moro expressed dismay over the horrific and unprovoked attacks on peaceful, agrarian communities. He noted the significant humanitarian impact, including injuries to numerous residents currently receiving treatment in hospitals, widespread displacement, and the threat of a looming food crisis as farmers abandon their farmlands due to fear.

The motion includes several key resolutions: observing a minute of silence for the victims, strongly condemning the killings, urging the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and other security agencies to immediately deploy heavy security presence to the affected areas and surrounding communities, and mandating a thorough investigation to track down and prosecute the perpetrators.

Senator Moro emphasized that the primary responsibility of government at all levels, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is the security and welfare of citizens. He warned that without urgent intervention, the situation could lead to a complete breakdown of law and order in the region.

The development underscores the persistent security challenges in parts of Benue State, particularly in the southern zone, where banditry and related violence continue to claim innocent lives and disrupt livelihoods. The Senate’s response to this motion will be closely watched by residents seeking lasting peace and protection in the troubled areas.