The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Rev. Fr Moses Orshio Adasu University Makurdi (ASUU-MOAUM) chapter, has strongly condemned the recent heinous attack on Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue.
The union, in a statement jointly signed by Mr Ali Ako, the Chairperson, and Mr Daniel Chile, Secretary, described the Yelewata attack as one attack too many.
The duo who urged the government to improve citizens’ protection expressed concern over violent assaults that have continued to plague numerous communities across the state.
They decried the continuous loss of innocent lives, wanton destruction of property, and the growing atmosphere of insecurity that threatens the peace and stability of the state.
“The Yelewata tragedy is yet another painful blow to rural communities whose lives and livelihoods have been upended by these unprovoked acts of violence.
“It is particularly alarming that these attacks are occurring at the peak of the rainy and farming season, a critical time when Nigerians rely heavily on agriculture for food and economic sustenance.
“The people of Benue, predominantly farmers, have been driven out of their ancestral lands by armed herders, depriving them of access to their farmlands.
“This trend poses grave risks to food security not just in Benue, but across the country,” they said.
ASUU-MOAUM urged both the federal and state governments to live up to their constitutional responsibility of securing the lives and property of all Nigerians, especially those in rural and vulnerable areas.
They further called on security agencies to act with urgency, diligence, and fairness to prevent further bloodshed.
“Those responsible for these heinous crimes in Benue State must be tracked down and brought to justice without delay.
“We express our heartfelt solidarity with the families and communities affected by these attacks, particularly in Yelewata.
“We equally call for immediate humanitarian support and the implementation of effective resettlement programmes to aid the safe return and rehabilitation of displaced persons.
“In these trying times, we stand with the good people of Benue State and reaffirm our commitment to justice, peace, and the preservation of human life and dignity.”
