Former President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator David Mark, has strongly condemned the recent wave of deadly attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in multiple communities across Benue State.
The attacks have resulted in the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of property valued in billions of naira, devastating families and communities in areas like Otukpo, Agatu, Apa, Ohimini, Okpokwu, Ado, Ogbadibo, Gwer-West, Gwer-East, Katsina-Ala, Logo, and Ukum.
Senator Mark expressed deep sorrow over the relentless violence, which included several killings and kidnappings in Otukpo and Gwer-West in recent weeks, sparking widespread outrage and protests from local youth. He called for urgent and decisive action to end the suffering and restore peace to the region.
Special Adviser to the former President of the senate, Paul Mumeh in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday quoted Senator Mark to have indicated that,
“This senseless violence is an assault on the people of Benue, and it must be stopped,” said Senator Mark. “While some of the perpetrators have been apprehended, I call on the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that all those involved, directly or indirectly, are brought to justice.”
The former Senate President called for increased vigilance from communities, particularly the youth, urging them to work alongside law enforcement to report any suspicious activity that could help prevent further bloodshed. He emphasized the need for solidarity and mutual support, warning against ethnic profiling or retaliatory violence, which could escalate the crisis.
“It is critical that we resist the temptation for reprisal attacks or blaming any particular group. We are one people, and unity is our greatest strength in overcoming these dark times,” he stated.
Mark also offered his condolences to the victims’ families, expressing solidarity with all those affected by the attacks. He prayed for the souls of the departed and reaffirmed his commitment to working with the authorities to ensure justice is served.
“My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones in these heinous attacks. May their souls rest in peace. We must stand together as one, to ensure that such atrocities are not repeated, and that justice is served for the victims,” he concluded.