Representatives move against revenge, advocate dialogue to address security challenges in Benue

From Abel Leonard, Lafia

The Senator representing Benue North East Senatorial district, Senator Emmanuel Memga Udende, and the House of Representatives member representing Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo Federal Constituency, Prince Solomon Wombo, visited Ukum to express their condolences and assess the damage caused by recent attacks that claimed the lives of 24 constituents.

Speaking to Daily Sun reporter on Thursday while on inspection at Akpuuna, Mbazun in Ukum LGA, Senator Udende appealed to the Mbagyeren community, which was directly attacked, not to seek revenge and worsen the already dire security situation in the area.

He emphasized that vengeance should be left to God. The Senator condemned the activities of the perpetrators and expressed concern over the targeting of unarmed constituents. He called for dialogue, assuring the people that the government is willing to listen to their grievances.

Similarly, Prince Solomon Wombo, former House of Representatives Member, joined Senator Udende in condemning the brutal and inhumane nature of the attacks.

He expressed his disappointment that Sankera continues to make headlines for negative reasons and urged the youth to strive for positive recognition.

The acting Chairman and DGSA of Ukum Local Government council, Hon. Joseph Apera, expressed gratitude for the swift response of the 10th National Assembly members from Sankera, who visited the affected communities. He called on the Benue State Governor to release relief materials through the State Emergency Agency (SEMA) to provide immediate succor to the affected people.

Chief John Kungwa, the District Head of Mbazun, reported that the attacks resulted in the destruction of over 30 houses, the loss of 24 lives, and four individuals sustaining gunshot injuries.