The lawmaker representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Ojotu Ojema, has expressed deep frustration over the recurring killings in his constituency, stating that he is "tired of condemning the frequent mass murders" of his people.
Ojema's statement comes in reaction to a deadly attack on Edikwu-Ankpali community in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, where suspected armed Fulani herdsmen killed over 20 residents on Sunday night, June 1, 2025.
According to reports, heavily armed attackers invaded the community, with 11 bodies recovered and buried so far, while several others remain missing. The attack has raised serious questions about security response in the area.
Security Response Under Scrutiny
The lawmaker questioned how such a deadly assault could occur near a military base in Odugbo without an immediate response. He did, however, commend the intervention of Mobile Police Unit 80 (Mopol 80), noting that their swift action prevented further casualties.
"I just received the unprovoked killing of my people in Edikwu-Ankpali community by suspected Fulani herdsmen with rude shock. These are deaths too many. I just visited the people of Akpete/Ojantele over a similar killing by the same murderous group," Ojema lamented in a personally signed statement.
"I am tired of condemning the frequent attacks in my federal constituency. It is sad that such gruesome murders of my people are still happening despite the presence of security bases nearby," he added.
Call for Government Action
The representative called on both the federal and Benue State governments to urgently address the escalating insecurity in Apa and Agatu areas. He emphasized that the government's primary responsibility remains the protection of lives and property of citizens.
This latest attack adds to a troubling pattern of violence in Benue State, where communities have repeatedly suffered similar assaults. The Edikwu-Ankpali massacre occurred just after Ojema had visited Akpete/Ojantele community over a similar attack by suspected herdsmen.
As investigations continue, residents remain on edge while authorities work to restore security in the affected areas. The incident has once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Benue State's border regions.
