By Peter Oga

Alarmed by renewed killings in Benue State, the Senate has called for the establishment of a Police Area Command and a military base in Apa and Agatu Local Government Areas.
The move followed fresh attacks on several communities, leaving residents in fear.

The Nigerian Senate, on Wednesday, took a decisive step to address the rising wave of violence in Benue State, calling for the immediate establishment of a Police Area Command and a military base in Apa and Agatu Local Government Areas.

The resolution followed a motion moved by Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, who decried the persistent killings and insecurity ravaging communities in Benue South.

Moro raised the alarm over renewed attacks, particularly in Ankpali-Edikwu in Apa LGA, stressing that urgent intervention was needed to prevent further loss of lives.

Investigations revealed that several communities have come under attack in recent weeks.

In Apa LGA, affected areas include Ugbobi, Akpete, Ologba, Inyapu and Oloke.

Similarly, in Agatu LGA, communities such as Ikpele Gope, Ikpele Gochi, Okpokpolo, Ejima I and II, Olega Gbane, Akele, Alokpa and Ologba have reportedly been hit.

Residents, who spoke in hushed tones, said fear now dominates daily life, as many families have been forced to flee or live under constant threat.

The Senate’s directive is expected to boost security presence in the troubled areas, improve response time and deter further attacks.

Benue State has remained one of the flashpoints of recurring violence in Nigeria, with repeated calls for stronger federal intervention.