Senate summons Security Chiefs Over 113 deaths in Benue

The Senate has called on security chiefs to urgently strengthen security operations in Benue State following attacks on several communities that reportedly claimed 113 lives.

The lawmakers also directed the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to investigate the killings and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The Senate made the call on Thursday while considering a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Memga Udende, representing Benue North-East Senatorial District.

The motion highlighted four separate attacks in the state, including the killing of 24 people in Sai community, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area; 63 people in Bom and Aboajio villages, Ukum LGA; and 15 people, including six Mobile Police officers, in Ayilamo, Logo LGA.

The lawmakers also cited the killing of 11 people in Tse Biliji and Tse Shishi Nyako villages in Ukum LGA on October 8, 2026.

Following deliberations, the Senate condemned the attacks and called for urgent measures to prevent further bloodshed, including improved intelligence gathering, rapid security responses and the arrest of the perpetrators.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed concern over the killing of security personnel, questioning the safety of communities that lack the means to defend themselves.

“If military personnel and other armed security officers are killed in these attacks, what happens to communities that have no means of defending themselves? We must bring this matter to the attention of the Service Chiefs so that they can take appropriate action to strengthen security in the affected areas,” Akpabio said.

The Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims and extended condolences to the families of those killed, as well as the government and people of Benue State.

The lawmakers urged security agencies to intensify operations in the affected areas and take decisive action to protect residents from further attacks.