The Member of the House of Representatives for Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, Arc. (Dr.) Asema Achado, expresses deep sadness and concern regarding the relentless attacks plaguing the Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, attributed to suspected Fulani militia.
Hon. Achado laments the alarming silence from Governor Hyacinth Alia in the face of these gruesome incidents, which have left many innocent people of the area in fear and despair. He emphasizes the necessity for immediate, life-saving measures to combat insecurity and protect the lives of the people of Benue State.
Hon Achado pointedly urges Governor Alia to explain to the people of Benue the apparent dormancy of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law since the Governor’s assumption of office in May 2023. Hon. Achado stresses that the fundamental duty of government is to safeguard its people and maintain law and order, highlighting the vital role that effective legislation plays in this endeavour.
The Gwer East/Gwer West Representative points out that it is in the bid to guarantee the safety of their people that he and other members of the Benue State Caucus at the National Assembly have sponsored bills and raised several motions on the floors of the Senate and House of Representatives which have resulted in increased action and financial support from the President Bola Tinubu administration to Benue State, to enable the state combat insecurity.
Arc. Achado reiterates his call for the enforcement of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Law, which was designed to provide a sustainable solution to the ongoing hardships faced by Benue farmers due to the activities of marauding herders. He notes that the persistent attacks have not only resulted in physical harm but have also inflicted emotional and psychological scars on the affected communities, disrupting lives and livelihoods.
“The relentless violence must end. Our farmers are the backbone of our economy, yet they live in constant fear,” Achado states. He calls upon the Benue State Government to take decisive action to halt these unwarranted attacks, reminding Governor Alia that silence in the face of such adversity may be interpreted as complicity.
Hon. Achado offers his prayers and condolences to the families of those who have lost loved ones to the mindless attacks by armed herders. He encourages the Tyoshin community and others affected to remain peaceful and resilient, even amidst their challenges. “It is in our unity and strength that we will find hope and a path forward,” he remarks.
He finally calls for the establishment of a comprehensive security strategy that includes community engagement and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, believing that by fostering partnerships between the government and local communities, they can develop tailored approaches to tackle insecurity effectively.
Mendah Manasseh
Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity
Arc. (Dr.) Asema Achado
House of Representatives Member, Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency
Sunday, October 20th, 2024.
