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In a sobering reminder of the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga, has urged security operatives to step up their proactive measures following a deadly attack on a lawmaker’s convoy last week. The incident, which claimed the life of a former local government councilor, has sparked renewed calls for collaboration between security agencies and communities to safeguard lives and property across Benue State.
The attack targeted the convoy of the Minority Whip, Hon. Samuel Shimapever Jiji, as he and his entourage returned from a peace meeting in Ayilamo Town. The ambush occurred near Tsukwa Village in Anyiin, Logo Local Government Area, en route to Makurdi. Suspected bandits opened fire on the vehicles, leading to the tragic death of Hon. Peter Tsebee Atindinga, a former councilor of Logo LGA, at the scene. The violence underscores the volatile nature of banditry in the area, where armed groups have increasingly targeted public officials and travelers.
Speaker Emberga made his appeal during a solidarity visit to Hon. Jiji on Monday, emphasizing the need for intensified efforts to maintain peace. “We urge our security operatives to remain proactive and vigilant in ensuring that peace and security are sustained across all communities in Benue,” he stated. He described the incident as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats and expressed confidence in the ability of security agencies to adapt their strategies to emerging challenges. The Speaker reiterated that the safety of citizens and public officials remains a top priority for Governor Alia’s administration.
Hon. Jiji, receiving the delegation, expressed profound gratitude for the show of support during this difficult time. “I sincerely thank the Speaker and Members of the House for their support and prayers during this trying time. May God grant you all safe journeys back to your various destinations,” he said. The visit highlighted the unity within the Assembly amid adversity, with principal officers and members accompanying the Speaker.
The delegation included key figures such as the Majority Chief Whip, Hon. Ikong Cyril Ijebe; the Deputy Majority Whip, Hon. Simon Gabo; and Hon. Douglas Akya of Makurdi North State Constituency. The statement was issued by Zape Michael Upaa, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, BSHOA, on November 2, 2025.
This event comes amid a broader pattern of insecurity in Benue, where farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and kidnappings have displaced communities and strained resources. Local leaders continue to advocate for stronger federal intervention, intelligence sharing, and community policing initiatives to curb such attacks. As Benue grapples with these issues, the Assembly’s response signals a commitment to resilience and collective action in the face of tragedy. Residents and officials alike hope that heightened vigilance will prevent future losses and restore stability to the region.
