The situation in Benue State has reached a critical point, with armed herders reportedly occupying 20 communities in the Agatu Local Government Area. Pastor Ojotu Ojema, the representative for the Apa/Agatu federal constituency in the House of Representatives, has issued a passionate plea for the Nigerian military to intervene and restore peace to the region. The rising violence and displacement of residents underscore the urgent need for action.

Ojema’s concerns were heightened after a recent attack in the Egwuma community, which occurred on October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day. In this tragic incident, six people lost their lives, including two soldiers sent to the area to provide security due to the ongoing threats from armed herders. The fact that this attack took place during a time of celebration has only deepened the sorrow and fear among the local population.

The armed herders have not only inflicted violence but have also forced many residents to flee their homes, resulting in the abandonment of entire communities. Pastor Ojema lamented that these herders have turned once-thriving areas into ghost towns, contributing to a growing humanitarian crisis. He described how the situation has deteriorated over time, with his constituency experiencing an alarming increase in attacks that have led to significant loss of life and property.

During his discussions with journalists in Makurdi, Ojema expressed frustration at the lack of effective government response to the ongoing crisis. He noted that he has visited Agatu over 25 times since taking office, primarily to console victims of these attacks. Despite his repeated appeals for action in the National Assembly, he feels the situation has only worsened.

Ojema emphasized the need for a permanent military presence in the Agatu region to deter future attacks and protect the residents. He stated, “The most worrisome aspect is that these armed herders not only attack but also occupy these communities, living alongside their cattle and making it difficult for the displaced people to return.”

The lawmaker is confident in the capabilities of the Nigerian military, asserting that they possess the training and resources necessary to handle such threats. He urged the military to ramp up their operations, including conducting clearance missions to reclaim the occupied areas. “If they cannot go by road, they can go by air,” he suggested, reinforcing that the security forces must be proactive in their approach to ensure the safety of the affected communities.

As armed herders continue to wreak havoc in Benue State, the urgent call for military intervention by Pastor Ojotu Ojema highlights the dire need for effective security measures in the region. The government must respond decisively to restore peace and protect the lives and livelihoods of the people in Agatu. Without immediate action, the humanitarian crisis will likely worsen, further endangering the lives of innocent civilians and destabilizing the region. It is time for the authorities to prioritize the safety and security of the people of Benue State.