Otukpo/Ohimini killings: Enough is enough – Emama Oyiudu Ikwue tells Government

The House of Representatives candidate of the National Democratic Party (NDP) for the Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, Emama Oyiudu Ikwue, has condemned the recent killings in parts of Benue South, calling on the Federal and Benue State governments to take immediate and decisive action to end the violence.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ikwue expressed sadness over the attacks on communities in Otukpo and Ohimini Local Government Areas, particularly the killings in Otobi-Nobi, Akpachi-Ugboju, and the latest reported attack on Ankpechi-Oglewu.

She described the attacks as “senseless acts of violence” that have claimed the lives of innocent men, women and children, while leaving many others injured and displaced.

“I am deeply saddened and outraged by the recent wave of brutal attacks on innocent communities in Otukpo and Ohimini Local Government Areas of Benue State,” she said.

The NDP candidate extended her condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities, stressing that no community should be forced to live under the constant fear of attacks by armed criminals.

According to her, the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, insisting that residents deserve to live, farm and go about their daily activities without fear.

She called on Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Federal Government, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, and other security agencies to move beyond words and take concrete steps to end the bloodshed in Benue South.

“The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be identified, arrested and prosecuted without delay. It is no longer enough to issue statements of sympathy after every attack. Our people deserve concrete action that will restore confidence and guarantee their safety,” she said.

Ikwue further urged the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to vulnerable communities across Otukpo and Ohimini, particularly areas identified as security flashpoints, to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.

She also reaffirmed her commitment to advocating policies aimed at strengthening community security, promoting peaceful coexistence, and ensuring that the voices of the people of Otukpo/Ohimini are adequately represented.

Calling for unity among stakeholders, Ikwue appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and community members to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence to help prevent future attacks.

She prayed for God to comfort families who lost loved ones, grant quick recovery to those injured, and restore lasting peace to the affected communities.