Chief Michael Aondoakaa, the 2027 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, visited the Abaashwa community in Mbaasar, Nzorov Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, to extend condolences to victims of a recent attack by suspected armed herders. During the visit, Aondoakaa emphasized the need for a non-partisan approach to security, stating that the protection of lives and property must transcend political considerations. He described the attack as “deeply painful and unacceptable” and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, wishing the injured a swift recovery. Aondoakaa, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, reiterated that security should be the foundation of development, allowing residents to live safely in their communities, cultivate their land, and pursue livelihoods without fear. He praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the creation of an Army Division based in Makurdi and the 11th Brigade in Gboko, as well as initiatives to improve military welfare. However, he urged local residents to assist security agencies by providing valuable information to enhance their effectiveness. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Samuel Ortom, highlighting the 2017 Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law as a legislative step toward resolving conflicts related to open grazing. Aondoakaa called for collective action among political leaders, traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies, emphasizing the importance of unity beyond party lines. He advocated for broader consultations, suggesting that the government should draw upon the experiences of past governors and experts familiar with Benue's unique security challenges. The acting Tyoor of Nzorov, Zaki Emmanuel Atoka, expressed gratitude for Aondoakaa’s presence during the community’s time of mourning, noting that the visit offered comfort to the affected families. Similarly, the President of Nzorov Development Association, Kenneth Pool, commended Aondoakaa for standing with the people during their distress. Separately, Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, visited Otukpo-Nobi and Efeyi-Ugboju communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, where recent attacks left multiple casualties. In a statement posted on his X account, Obi detailed the extent of the violence, reporting that over 10 people were killed or missing in Otukpo-Nobi, while more than 13 were killed in Efeyi-Ugboju. He also noted that 14 passengers had been kidnapped along Ankpechi Road earlier in the day. Obi participated in a mass burial ceremony for the victims and visited the hospital to offer support to the injured. He implored the federal government to increase its commitment to protecting citizens and to address the “ungoverned spaces” that have become hotbeds for insecurity. Emphasizing the government’s duty to ensure citizen safety, Obi stated that failure in this regard must be met with renewed accountability. Earlier reports indicated that on Thursday night, gunmen had abducted 14 passengers traveling in an 18-seater bus along the Ankpechi, Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government Area. Five of the victims, including a four-year-old child, were eventually rescued, while nine remained in captivity. The police confirmed the incident and launched a coordinated rescue operation, resulting in the safe return of five individuals, though the fate of the others remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the Federal Government, through the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), has collaborated with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms. This initiative, announced at an orientation camp in Bauchi, involves training corps members to advocate for an arms-free society. Maj. Gen. Abubakar Adamu (retd.), the Northeast Zonal Director of NCCSALW, highlighted the success of similar programs in Borno and Yobe, encouraging further participation in the North-East. Adamu underscored the critical role of youth engagement in curbing insecurity, noting that illicit arms fuel various crimes, including banditry and kidnapping. He urged parents and guardians to instill values of peace and tolerance in children, while NYSC coordinators were tasked with establishing Community Development Service groups to promote awareness. The Bauchi State NYSC Coordinator, Umoren Kufre, endorsed the initiative, pledging cooperation to eliminate the spread of illegal weapons in the region. As these incidents unfold, the security situation in Benue continues to deteriorate, with communities in Otukpo and Ohimini facing repeated threats. The ongoing challenges highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts between government, security agencies, and local leaders to restore stability and safeguard civilian life.
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