Aondoakaa condemns fresh Benue killings, demands urgent security action

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 Benue State election, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has condemned the ongoing attacks in several parts of Benue State, urging both the state government and security agencies to take urgent steps to end the killings and restore peace.

Aondoakaa described the recent murder of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad, as reprehensible and unacceptable, calling on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.

He also condemned Tuesday’s attack on Saai Community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, where scores of residents were reportedly killed while many others sustained injuries. He said the incident reflects the worsening security situation in the state.

The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice extended his condolences to the families of those killed, the people of Saai Community, Mbajir Ward and the entire Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. He also prayed 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 protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government as provided under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

He therefore urged the Benue State Government to adopt more proactive measures to safeguard communities against terrorists, bandits and armed attackers.

He argued that the state government has no justification for failing to address insecurity despite increased allocations to states following the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu, noting that the available resources should be used to strengthen security and protect residents.

Aondoakaa also referenced comments by the Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, who recently observed that while some states provide significant logistical support to security agencies, Benue has yet to institutionalize similar support. He said the remarks should serve as a wake-up call for the state government to improve collaboration with security agencies.

The PDP governorship hopeful questioned how the state’s monthly security votes are being utilized, insisting that such funds should translate into visible support for security agencies, improved intelligence gathering, rapid emergency response and practical measures capable of preventing attacks.

He called on security agencies to conduct thorough investigations into the killings, arrest those responsible and ensure they face prosecution, stressing that every life is sacred and justice must be served.

Aondoakaa also expressed concern over the poor condition of rural roads across Benue State, warning that deteriorating infrastructure continues to hinder the movement of security personnel and emergency responders during attacks. He described rural roads as strategic security assets that are essential for effective response to emergencies.

He appealed to the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to intensify operations across the state, bring those behind the Katsina-Ala attack and other violent crimes to justice, and ensure that no community remains under the threat of criminal elements.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of those killed in the attacks, including MACBAN Chairman Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad and victims of the Saai massacre, while asking God to comfort their families and grant healing to those injured.