Bandits have launched attacks on nine communities in Benue State's Apa Local Government Area, resulting in fatalities and the destruction of homes. The affected communities now lie deserted as survivors have fled for safety. While some locals estimate the death toll at 25, the area's lawmaker, Abu Umoru, stated that the casualties have become too numerous to count.
Umoru revealed that nearly 95% of communities in the local government are now empty due to the frequent attacks. He cited examples such as Edikpo, Opaha, Odugbo, Akpete, Ikobi, Akpata, Idiaha, Ochumekwu, and Adiga, where residents have been displaced. He recounted harrowing incidents of bandits burning houses in Akpete and laying ambushes that result in daily killings.
Expressing deep concern over the crisis, Umoru shared his personal struggle with illness due to the distressing situation. He criticized the lack of effective action despite motions raised in the National Assembly and questioned where to seek help. Umoru highlighted challenges in providing assistance to affected communities and lamented the vulnerability of his constituents.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Benue State Police Command and the state government, including Governor Hyacinth Alia’s Special Adviser on Security, Joseph Har, were unsuccessful. The situation remains dire, with continued violence and displacement affecting the region.
