Senate Demands Action Over 113 Reported Benue Deaths

The Nigerian Senate has called for urgent security intervention in Benue State following reports that 113 people, including six police officers, were killed in separate attacks on communities across the state.

The lawmakers expressed concern over the recurring violence during Thursday’s plenary, warning that the attacks were threatening lives, farming activities and economic stability.

Senator Emmanuel Udende, representing Benue North-East, presented a motion detailing attacks in Katsina-Ala, Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.

According to figures presented to the Senate, 24 people were reportedly killed in Sai community, while another 63 died in attacks on Bom and Aboajio villages.

Another attack in Ayilamo reportedly claimed 15 lives, including six Mobile Police personnel.

Eleven additional deaths were reported following an October 8 attack on Tse Biliji and Tse Shishi Nyako villages.

The figures presented to lawmakers indicate a combined reported death toll of 113 across the separate incidents.

Senate Calls for Stronger Security Measures

Following the motion, the Senate urged the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen security operations in vulnerable communities.

Lawmakers called for improved intelligence gathering, early-warning systems and faster emergency response mechanisms to prevent further violence.

The Senate also demanded investigations into the attacks and the prosecution of those responsible.

Relevant emergency management agencies were urged to provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Beyond the reported deaths, the recurring violence has raised concerns about displacement, disrupted farming activities and the destruction of livelihoods.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio directed the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence to engage relevant agencies on measures to improve security.

The development has renewed questions about the effectiveness of existing security arrangements and the protection of rural communities.

The reported casualty figures concern several separate attacks and are based on information presented during the Senate proceedings.