From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Igbo Heroes Foundation (IHF) has expressed concern over the continued killings in Benue State and advised the Federal Government to consider restructuring as a solution to ease the insecurity challenge, echoing the calls of most stakeholders in the country.
The group’s call followed growing concerns over the persistent violence and insecurity in Benue State, which has resulted in loss of lives and property. The foundation believes that restructuring could be a viable solution to address the underlying issues fuelling the crisis and promote national unity and stability.
National Coordinator of the Igbo group, Chinedu Nsofor argued that if states are allowed to manage their own security, the challenge would be solved.
Echoing the Foundation’s longstanding advocacy, he added: “This is why the Igbo Heroes Foundation, grounded in the vision of our founding leader, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has always championed restructuring. We must empower states to manage their own security. Restructure Nigeria and governors can institute modern, well-equipped state police ready to protect every region.
“Governors should be empowered to deploy AK-47-equipped security units if necessary to guard farmlands and prevent further massacres,” he said.
While sympathising with the families of the victims of the massacre , Nsofor said: “As we mourn this atrocious act, we acknowledge that the insecurity plaguing Benue is merely the latest manifestation of a broader national crisis .
“These criminal herdsmen are carrying out murderous operations in the South East too. The recent attacks in Enugu, including the ambush in Agu-Amede autonomous community, that killed seven and left others missing, illustrate how pervasive and ruthless this threat has become.” He characterised the crisis as a systemic failure of Nigeria’s constitutional structure, saying, “The root of this insecurity is Nigeria’s broken security architecture. Governors lack the power to establish effective policing in their states. How can a chief security officer be hamstrung by law?”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, as well as to the government and people of Benue State,” Nsofor stated.