The Nigerian Senate has issued a strong call for urgent and decisive intervention to halt the wave of killings in Ankpali-Edikwu, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, following a motion sponsored by Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro.
Raising the motion during plenary on Wednesday, Senator Moro drew attention to the gruesome killing of several residents on April 12, 2026, allegedly carried out by suspected armed herdsmen. He warned that the latest attack underscores a “disturbing and recurring pattern of violence” sweeping through rural communities in the state.
He noted that the killings have continued to result in loss of lives, destruction of property, and the mass displacement of residents, deepening a crisis that has left many communities in fear.
The Senate expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation, warning that persistent attacks have disrupted farming activities and now pose a serious threat to food security in Benue, widely regarded as Nigeria’s “Food Basket.”
Lawmakers stressed that the “continued brutality” of the attacks raises serious questions about the effectiveness of existing security measures, insisting that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.
While commending security agencies for their efforts, the Senate called for a sweeping overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, advocating more proactive, intelligence-driven, and community-based strategies to confront the crisis.
Adopting the motion, the upper chamber urged the Federal Government to immediately deploy additional military and paramilitary personnel to Apa LGA and other affected parts of the state to restore law and order.
It also called on security chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector General of Police, to intensify coordinated operations aimed at apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring they are brought to justice without delay.
The Senate further mandated its Committees on Defence, Army, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the recurring attacks in Benue South and across the state, with a view to recommending sustainable solutions.
Lawmakers also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant bodies to provide immediate humanitarian assistance, including relief materials and medical support, to affected communities.
As part of long-term solutions, the Senate called on the Federal Government to develop and implement strategies to address farmer-herder conflicts, including ranching policies, land use reforms, and community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
The chamber also directed the immediate establishment of a Police Area Command and a military base in Apa and Agatu LGAs, alongside improved funding for security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response.
The Senate did not spare the state government, calling on Hyacinth Alia to rise to his constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.
In honour of the victims, lawmakers observed a minute of silence, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring justice and restoring peace to the affected communities.
