Otukpo killings: Aondoakaa, Ocheakiti blame Benue Govt, unveil security plan

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 Benue State election, Chief Mike Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), and his running mate, Dr. Ogbenjuwa Oyije Ocheakiti, have condemned the deadly attack on Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed more than eight lives.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday by their campaign organisation, the duo described the attack by suspected armed herders as a tragedy, extending condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Idoma land.

They said the latest killings highlighted what they described as the failure of the Benue State Government to adequately protect lives and property.

Aondoakaa criticised what he termed “governance by lamentation,” arguing that despite huge security votes allocated to the state, many communities remain exposed to violent attacks.

He also faulted the state government for allegedly failing to provide adequate logistical and operational support to federal security agencies, including Operation Whirl Stroke, saying the situation had weakened efforts to combat insecurity in affected communities.

His running mate, Ocheakiti, a security expert, said governments must move beyond issuing condolence messages and instead adopt proactive measures to prevent attacks.

The PDP governorship candidates proposed a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to tackle insecurity in Benue South.

Among their recommendations were the establishment of Forward Operational Bases (FOBs) at strategic entry points and transit routes allegedly used by armed attackers, strengthening and equipping state-backed Civil Protection Guards and community volunteer groups, and carrying out intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal hideouts in forests across the area.

They also called for the transparent use of security votes to fund early warning systems, including drone surveillance, community hotlines and geospatial tracking technology.

Other measures proposed include strengthening border security through collaboration with neighbouring states, implementing a secure resettlement programme for internally displaced persons (IDPs), and empowering traditional rulers, youth groups and community development associations to improve intelligence gathering and conflict resolution.

The duo maintained that protecting lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, assuring residents that security would be a top priority under their proposed administration if elected in 2027.