By Michael Agbaji
The Nigerian Senate has called for immediate and decisive action to halt the renewed wave of killings in Ankpali-Edikwu, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
This resolution followed a motion raised during plenary by the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, who drew attention to the gruesome killing of several residents on April 12, 2026, allegedly by suspected armed herdsmen.
Presenting the motion, Senator Moro described the incident as part of a disturbing and recurring pattern of violence across rural communities in Benue State, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and mass displacement of residents.
The Senate expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation, noting that persistent attacks have created widespread fear, disrupted farming activities, and posed a serious threat to food security in Benue State, widely regarded as Nigeria’s “Food Basket.”
Lawmakers emphasized that the continued brutality of such attacks raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of existing security measures, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.
While commending the efforts of security agencies, the Senate called for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s security architecture, advocating proactive, intelligence-driven, and community-based approaches to tackling insecurity.
The Senate urged the Federal Government to immediately deploy additional military and paramilitary personnel to Apa Local Government Area and other affected parts of Benue State to restore law and order.
It also called on the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and heads of other security agencies to intensify coordinated operations aimed at apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring they are brought to justice without delay.
Furthermore, the Senate mandated its Committees on Defence, Army, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the recurring attacks in Benue South and across the state, with a view to recommending sustainable solutions.
The lawmakers also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant bodies to provide immediate humanitarian assistance, including relief materials and medical support to affected communities.
As part of long-term measures, the Senate called on the Federal Government to develop and implement strategies to address farmer-herder conflicts, including ranching policies, land use reforms, and community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
In addition, the Senate directed the immediate establishment of a Police Area Command and a military base in Apa and Agatu Local Government Areas, alongside improved funding for security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
The Senate also called on Hyacinth Alia, Governor of Benue State, to intensify efforts in fulfilling his constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property within the state.
In honour of the victims, the Senate observed a minute of silence and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice and restoring lasting peace to the affected communities
