The Member of the House of Representatives for Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, Arc. Asema Achado has called for the establishment of a comprehensive security strategy that includes community engagement and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to tackle insecurity in the state.
The lawmaker who decried the incessant killings of Benue people by suspected Fulani herdsmen believed that the establishment of a comprehensive security strategy will foster partnerships between the government and local communities in which they can develop tailored approaches to tackle insecurity effectively.
He also reiterated his call for the enforcement of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Law in the state to stop the continuous killings in the state.
According to the statement issued by his media aide, Mendah Manasseh, a copy made available, to journalists in Makurdi on Sunday said that the anti-open grazing law enacted by the immediate past administration of Samuel Ortom was designed to provide a sustainable solution to the ongoing hardships faced by Benue farmers due to the activities of marauding herders.
He noted that the persistent attacks have not only resulted in physical harm but have also inflicted emotional and psychological scars on the affected communities, disrupting lives and livelihoods.
The lawmaker expressed deep sadness and concern regarding the relentless attacks plaguing the Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State which he attributed to suspected Fulani militia.
Achado decried the alarming silence from State Governor Hyacinth Alia in the face of these gruesome incidents, which he said had left many innocent people in the area in fear and despair.
“He emphasizes the necessity for immediate, life-saving measures to combat insecurity and protect the lives of the people of Benue State.
“Hon Achado pointedly urges Governor Alia to explain to the people of Benue the apparent dormancy of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law since the Governor’s assumption of office in May 2023.
“Hon. Achado stresses that the fundamental duty of government is to safeguard its people and maintain law and order, highlighting the vital role that effective legislation plays in this endeavour.
Meanwhile, the lawmaker pointed out that it is in the bid to guarantee the safety of their people that he and other members of the Benue State Caucus at the National Assembly sponsored bills and raised several motions on the floors of the Senate and House of Representatives which have resulted in increased action and financial support from the President Bola Tinubu administration to Benue State, to enable the state combat insecurity.
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