The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Benue State, Michael Aondoakaa, has condemned the latest attack on Abaashwa community in Mbaasar, Nzorov Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, where suspected armed herdsmen killed four people.
In a statement issued by his media aide, James Ian, the candidate described the attack as barbaric, heartbreaking and yet another painful reminder of the worsening security situation in Benue State. While extending condolences to the families of those killed and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured currently receiving treatment, Aondoakaa expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation, stressing that the true test of effective security lies in preventing attacks rather than merely responding after lives have been lost. “Recurring attacks on Benue communities have created an atmosphere of fear, forcing many farmers away from their ancestral lands and threatening the state’s agricultural economy,” he said, noting that the people of the state want concrete security measures that will end the endless cycle of killings and displacement.
He appealed to the state government to recognize that protecting lives and property remains its foremost constitutional responsibility and should command greater attention. “Every available resource, every security architecture and every policy initiative should be directed towards achieving that sacred responsibility. Benue people deserve security, not endless condolences,” he said. Aondoakaa also expressed concern over reports that some injured victims experienced delays in accessing prompt medical attention due to an ongoing industrial action by doctors in the state, urging authorities to make emergency arrangements to ensure victims of violent attacks receive immediate, life saving medical care.
