Aondoakaa Condemns Benue Killings, Demands Urgent Action on Insecurity
By Yahaya Idris, Makurdi
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 Benue State election, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has condemned the recent wave of violent attacks across parts of Benue State, describing the killings and displacement of residents as alarming and unacceptable.
Aondoakaa, a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the state, calling for decisive and practical measures to end what he described as the “killing fields” in Benue.
He particularly condemned the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad, describing the murder as reprehensible and calling on security agencies to track down and prosecute those responsible.
The PDP chieftain also condemned the recent attack on Saai Community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, where scores of residents were reportedly killed and many others injured.
Reacting to the incident, Aondoakaa said he received the tragic news with shock and deep sorrow, describing the massacre as another painful reminder of the deteriorating security situation in the state.
He extended condolences to the bereaved families, the people of Saai Community, Mbajir Ward, and the entire Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, while praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.
Aondoakaa further decried similar attacks in Agatu, Guma, Gwer West, Kwande, and other parts of Benue State.
According to him, the primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property, as clearly stated under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He therefore urged the Benue State Government to rise to its constitutional responsibility by taking proactive steps to secure communities against terrorists, bandits, and armed invaders.
Aondoakaa argued that the state government has no justification for failing the people on security, especially with increased revenue accruing to states following the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said the additional resources were meant to strengthen states’ capacity to address pressing challenges, including insecurity, but lamented that many Benue communities continue to suffer relentless attacks with little evidence of a coordinated response.
The former minister referenced comments by the Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, who reportedly lamented that while some states provide substantial logistical support to security agencies, Benue has yet to institutionalize such assistance
He said the commander’s remarks should serve as a wake-up call, underscoring the urgent need for stronger collaboration, investment, and commitment in tackling insecurity.
Aondoakaa also demanded accountability regarding the state’s monthly security votes, questioning how the funds are being utilized while communities remain vulnerable to repeated attacks and displacement.
He stressed that security votes must translate into visible support for security agencies, improved intelligence gathering, rapid emergency response, and practical preventive measures.
The PDP governorship hopeful further expressed concern over the poor state of rural roads in Benue, warning that deteriorating infrastructure continues to hamper security operations and delay emergency response to troubled communities.
According to him, rural roads are not only developmental assets but strategic security infrastructure necessary for swift deployment of troops and emergency personnel.
He called on the military, the police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to intensify operations, apprehend the perpetrators of the Katsina-Ala massacre and other violent crimes, and ensure justice is served.
Aondoakaa prayed for the peaceful repose of those killed in the attacks, including Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad and the victims of the Saai massacre, while asking God to grant comfort to grieving families and healing to the injured.
