Former Senate President David Mark has warned that if the federal government does not stop the attacks happening in Benue State, the people might have no choice but to defend themselves. He is very worried about the security situation because many communities have been destroyed, many people have died, and properties damaged.

On Monday, June 16, Mark’s Special Adviser, Paul Mumeh, shared a statement from him. Mark said the ongoing violence shows the government is failing to protect its citizens as it should by law.

Mark said, “The government’s most important job is to keep its people safe and take care of them. When it fails to do this, it is letting the people down badly. This is the hard reality the people of Benue are facing.”

He called on the federal government to take quick and strong action to stop the violence and stop it from getting worse. He also asked the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, to do more to protect the lives and homes of the people in the state.

Mark asked traditional rulers, community leaders, and all residents to work with security forces to find and punish those causing the violence. He said, “This is a difficult time for our people. We must come together, stay united, and speak out against the attackers. We should not be afraid.”

He also encouraged the people to obey the law and stay strong even with the rising danger. He warned that if the government does not act, the attackers will feel braver and people will lose faith in the government.

On Sunday, June 15, Pope Francis prayed for the victims of the recent violence in Benue. He expressed sadness about the ongoing violence in Nigeria and prayed for safety, justice, and peace in the country, especially for the rural communities in Benue State that have been suffering for a long time.