Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Benue North-East (Zone A), Thomas Tyolumun Unongo, has visited Ayilamo in Tombo Community, Logo Local Government Area, where he met residents and victims of recent attacks reportedly carried out by suspected armed herders.
Unongo described the visit as an opportunity to see the situation firsthand, listen to the people and understand the challenges confronting the community. He called for urgent efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, end the killings, and protect the lives, livelihoods and food-producing communities affected by the crisis.
He stressed that any senator representing an area plagued by persistent killings must ensure the matter receives attention at the national level. “If I’m your Senator and such killings occur in my constituency, the whole National Assembly must know that something has happened. In fact, no budget will be passed without the Presidency doing something about the killings,” Unongo stated.
Reflecting on the journey to Ayilamo, he expressed deep sadness over the destruction and displacement he witnessed. “In my car coming here, I wept. Travelling this long distance to Ayilamo, I saw no good house. It means they have chased our people away. This is a challenge we must overcome,” he said. He also urged the youths of Tombo to remain vigilant and resilient while affirming the community’s determination to stay on their ancestral land.
The traditional ruler of the area, Mue-Ter Ipusu, HRM Samuel Tukpegh, welcomed Unongo and appealed to him to prioritise security if given the opportunity to serve. “What we need is security, and nothing more. My son, when God answers your prayers and grants you the opportunity, remember to come back and give us security,” the monarch said.
The President General of the Tombo Development Association, Mr. Msugh Abughzwa, commended Unongo for the personal visit, noting that it brought comfort to affected residents and assuring him of the community’s support. In his homily, Rev. Fr. Raymond Iorver described the visit as the beginning of a spiritual battle for the peace and security of Tombo and Benue State, praying for an end to the violence.
