Senator Emmanuel Memga Udende, representing Benue North-East, has called for a united front among traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to combat the escalating insecurity in the Sankera region of Benue State.
During a courtesy visit to the Tor Sankera, His Royal Highness Chief David Sevav in Makurdi, Senator Udende emphasized that political divisions would only exacerbate the security challenges facing the region.
"Political differences will only deepen the crisis. We need collective action to end the killings and restore peace in Sankera," Udende stated.
Udende, who chairs the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, stressed the importance of setting aside political differences to address the persistent attacks that have plagued the Zone A region.
In his response, the Tor Sankera appreciated the Senator's visit and clarified his position as a traditional ruler for all residents of Sankera, regardless of their political affiliations.
"God made me Tor Sankera for everyone, not just a select few," Chief Sevav remarked.
The Senator was accompanied by several notable stakeholders from the Sankera region, including former Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Donald Gbugho; former Ukum State Constituency Assembly Member, John Heen Kyado; Terver Kacki; Evangelist Brahms Ikuan; and Elder John Ashe, among others.
The Sankera region, which comprises Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas, has been experiencing significant security challenges in recent years, with numerous reports of violent attacks affecting local communities.
This call for unity comes at a critical time when coordinated efforts are needed to restore peace and security to the troubled region.