NDC Governorship Candidate Condemns Attack in Benue, Calls for Stronger Security Measures

The Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Benue State, Professor Terhemba Shija, has condemned the latest attack on communities in the state, describing the incident as another painful reminder of the insecurity that continues to threaten lives and livelihoods across the region.

Shija, alongside his running mate, expressed concern over the reported attack on communities in Ukum Local Government Area, stressing that the continued violence against residents cannot be treated as an ordinary security challenge.

The latest incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of rural communities in Benue, particularly areas where residents depend heavily on farming and other forms of agriculture for their livelihoods.

For many families in such communities, insecurity has become a major threat to their ability to work, travel and carry out their daily activities without fear.

The NDC candidate said the safety of citizens must remain a central responsibility of government, arguing that no meaningful development can take place when people are unable to live and work in peace.

He expressed sympathy with residents affected by the attack and urged the relevant authorities to take immediate steps to prevent further violence.

The call comes amid continuing concerns over attacks in different parts of Benue, a state that has experienced repeated security challenges over the years.

Communities have repeatedly raised concerns about attacks, displacement and the disruption of agricultural activities, with many residents demanding stronger protection from security agencies.

The situation has also affected farmers, many of whom are reluctant to travel to distant farmlands because of fears of being attacked or kidnapped.

When farmers abandon their fields, the consequences extend beyond individual families.

Agricultural production can decline, food prices can rise and rural communities can suffer serious economic setbacks.

This makes the security situation in Benue not only a matter of public safety but also an issue directly connected to food security and economic development.

Shija’s condemnation comes as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

However, he stressed that the security of residents should not be reduced to a political issue.

According to the position expressed by the NDC candidate, protecting citizens requires cooperation between political leaders, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents.

He called for a more effective security response capable of identifying threats before they develop into attacks.

The candidate also emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering and rapid response, noting that security agencies need reliable information from communities to effectively prevent attacks.

Rural communities often have valuable information about movements of suspicious individuals and potential threats, but residents may be reluctant to share such information when they fear retaliation.

Strengthening trust between security agencies and local communities could therefore play an important role in improving security.

Community members must also have confidence that information provided to authorities will be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly.

The recurring attacks have also created psychological pressure on residents.

Families living in affected areas may struggle with constant fear, while children can grow up in environments where violence has become a regular concern.

The long-term impact of insecurity can therefore extend beyond the immediate loss of lives and property.

It can affect education, economic activity, healthcare delivery and the general wellbeing of communities.

Schools may be disrupted when parents fear sending their children to distant locations, while healthcare workers may also face difficulties reaching communities considered unsafe.

Businesses and traders can equally suffer when insecurity reduces movement between communities.

Shija’s reaction has consequently drawn attention to the need for a broader approach to security in Benue.

Beyond deploying personnel after attacks occur, there is a need for sustained measures aimed at preventing violence and addressing the conditions that allow criminal activities to thrive.

Security agencies must also ensure that perpetrators of attacks are identified and brought before the law.

Residents often become frustrated when attacks occur repeatedly without clear accountability.

Where perpetrators are arrested and successfully prosecuted, it can help strengthen public confidence in the justice system and discourage others from engaging in similar crimes.

The NDC candidate also urged authorities to pay greater attention to communities that are vulnerable to attacks.

Preventive security measures, including patrols, surveillance and improved communication between security agencies and local residents, could help reduce the risks faced by people living in remote areas.

For the people of Benue, the latest incident has once again brought the question of security to the forefront.

Residents want to be able to farm, travel, attend school, conduct businesses and return home safely without living under the constant threat of violence.

The issue is particularly important in a state where agriculture remains a major source of income for a large part of the population.

Without adequate security, farmers may be forced to reduce cultivation or abandon their farmlands altogether.

That could have serious consequences for households and the wider economy.

Political leaders and candidates seeking public office are therefore likely to face increasing pressure to present clear and realistic plans for tackling insecurity.

As the 2027 election approaches, security is expected to remain one of the major issues shaping political discussions across Benue.

The NDC will be expected to present its own strategy for addressing the problem if the party seeks the support of voters in the state.

For now, however, Shija’s immediate concern remains the safety of communities affected by the latest attack.

He has joined calls for stronger action to protect residents and prevent further loss of lives.

The incident serves as another reminder that security challenges in Benue require sustained attention rather than temporary responses following individual attacks.

The people of the state need lasting peace, while farmers and rural communities require an environment where they can return to their farms without fear.

As authorities respond to the latest incident, residents will be hoping that stronger measures are put in place to prevent another attack and restore confidence among communities.

The NDC candidate’s condemnation has added to the growing calls for decisive action, accountability and a more proactive approach to security in Benue.

For affected families and communities, however, the most important demand remains simple: protection, justice and the opportunity to live normal lives without the constant fear of violence.