Benue: Killing of innocent villagers by suspected herdsmen heartbreaking – Idoma group

The Idoma Association USA, a socio-cultural organisation, has condemned the persistent horrific attacks on Benue South communities by suspected herdsmen.

The group lamented that the reports of armed herdsmen wielding sophisticated weapons without any restriction from security personnel are deeply disturbing.

No fewer than 500 persons have been killed and several others missing after suspected herdsmen launched coordinated attacks on some villages in Apa, Otukpo and Agatu LGAs of the state.

The latest wave of violence has ravaged several communities, leaving villages like Ogwumogbo, Ikpele, Ejima, Okokolo, Olegomakwu, Olegonyilo, Nahem, Ocholonya, Abugbe, Ugboju, Odugbeho and Olegobidu decimated, with numerous lives lost.

Reacting to the latest waves of attacks, Prince Edwin Ochai, president of the association, in a statement on Sunday, said it is unacceptable that “our people are left defenseless, homes destroyed, and farm produce decimated.”

He bemoaned the loud silence of the state and federal governments over the persistent attacks on the people of Idoma community.

He, therefore, implored the relevant security agencies to step in and take decisive actions to bring an end to the attacks that have turned Benue South into a killing field.

He said, “It is with a heavy heart and profound concern that I address you today regarding the ongoing atrocities in Benue South Senatorial District, particularly in Apa, Otukpo, Agatu and other local government areas in Benue South Senatorial District.

“The recent wave of killings and displacement of innocent villagers by suspected herdsmen is not only heartbreaking but also a clear violation of the right to life and security.

“We, the Idoma Association USA, vehemently condemn these attacks and the deafening silence of the security agencies responsible for defending our people.

“The reports of armed attackers wielding sophisticated weapons without any restriction from security personnel are deeply disturbing.

“It is disheartening to witness the apparent support for the perpetrators and the prevention of locals from defending themselves.

“We stand in solidarity with the local vigilante groups who bravely try to protect their communities despite the odds stacked against them.

“Their lamentations in the video highlight the urgent need for intervention and support.

“We, therefore, call on all sons and daughters of Idoma land, both within and outside the borders of Nigeria, to unite and rally behind our local vigilantes in their quest to end these senseless killings.

“It is unacceptable that our people are left defenseless, homes destroyed, and farm produce decimated.

“We are aware of the efforts of the Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Hycainth Alia, and the Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Abba Moro, towards resolving the impunity of the marauding herdsmen and their constraints.

“We, however, urge them not to relent in bringing a lasting end to this carnage and to take proactive steps towards bringing this dastardly act to a total halt.

“We implore the Federal Government of Nigeria to step in promptly and take decisive action to bring an end to these heartless attacks that have turned our land into a killing field.

“The safety and well-being of our fellow Idoma citizens must be prioritized, and justice must prevail.

“We urge our members to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and engage in advocacy efforts to ensure that the voices of the victims are heard and that lasting solutions are implemented.”