Lawmaker Calls for Urgent Intervention Over Rising Insecurity in Otukpo
Blessing Onuh, the representative of Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has made a passionate appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to address the worsening security crisis in Otukpo, Benue State.
A State of Emergency in Otukpo
Onuh described the ongoing violence, including frequent attacks and killings, as a national emergency that demands immediate intervention. She expressed deep concern over the rising number of violent incidents in her constituency, pointing to the brutal murder of retired customs officer Onche Akatu in Asa 2 community. During the same attack, two of Akatu’s family members were kidnapped, adding to the growing insecurity in the region.
Series of Tragic Killings
The lawmaker also condemned the murder of Mrs. Felicia Ochigbo, a nursing mother, in the Old NTA Area of Asa, and an Igbo man in the community. These killings come just weeks after suspected herdsmen allegedly killed five men in Okpomoju Community, Okete Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area, causing widespread fear among residents.
Lack of Action by Security Agencies
Onuh expressed frustration over what she sees as the failure of security agencies to take concrete action. She criticized the repeated assurances from local and state officials who claim to be “on top of the matter” but fail to produce meaningful results.
She questioned why the perpetrators remain at large and why the government has not restored peace, leaving residents to live in fear.
Impact on Farmers and Food Security
The persistent violence has forced many farmers to flee their farmlands, worsening food shortages in the region. This situation threatens economic stability, as agriculture is a major source of livelihood in Otukpo and surrounding areas.
A Call for Presidential Action
In her appeal to President Tinubu, Onuh urged the federal government to take decisive steps to strengthen security measures in Otukpo. She called for a heightened presence of security forces to ensure that criminals are apprehended and brought to justice.
She also advised community members, particularly the youth, to avoid taking the law into their own hands through jungle justice or reprisal attacks, emphasizing that such actions would only worsen the crisis.
Commitment to Lasting Peace
Reassuring her constituents, Onuh affirmed her commitment to working closely with political leaders and security agencies to put an end to these heinous acts. She stressed that residents of Otukpo and its environs deserve to live in peace and security.
Read more on Nigeria’s security challenges and the government’s response.
Learn more about the impact of insecurity on food production in Nigeria.
READ ALSO:
Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp:
Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear:
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.