Benue Killings: Rep Philip Agbese decries bloodshed, declares 3-days of prayer, fasting

The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has expressed deep grief over the ongoing wave of violence in Benue State, describing the situation as both heartbreaking and unacceptable.

In a statement released on Monday, Agbese, who represents the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, condemned the latest attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected armed herdsmen reportedly killed scores.

He lamented the continued failure of relevant authorities to curb the violence despite numerous public outcries, warning that the prolonged silence of key stakeholders could be perceived as complicity.

“Our hearts are shattered. Benue has endured more bloodshed than any state should bear,” Agbese said. “We are tired of burying our people. We are tired of watching families torn apart and farmlands abandoned. This carnage must end.”

The lawmaker called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to urgently intervene, stressing that the crisis in Benue has escalated beyond security concerns into a full-blown humanitarian emergency.

To galvanize unity and spiritual response, Agbese declared a three-day period of prayer and fasting, appealing to religious and traditional leaders to intercede for the state.

“The situation is dire. This is beyond politics, religion, or tribe. We must unite as one people. The blood of our fathers, mothers, and children cries out from the ground,” he stated.