Benue State Commissioner for Power and Transportation, Omale Omale, has raised concerns over persistent insecurity in the state despite significant military deployment, noting that residents continue to suffer loss of lives and property.

Speaking during an interview on Thursday, Commissioner Omale acknowledged the military's efforts but expressed disappointment over their effectiveness in preventing attacks by suspected herdsmen.

"We thought the presence of the military would ward off invaders, but we keep seeing a surge of invaders and their activities," Omale stated. "There is still loss of lives and properties in the state. The people expect that the military would engage invaders immediately as they troop into communities."

The Commissioner's comments follow a recent deadly attack on Edikwu Ankpali community in Apa Local Government Area, where at least 25 persons were confirmed dead after suspected herdsmen invaded the area.

Military Conduct Under Investigation

Omale also revealed that an investigation is ongoing regarding allegations that a resident died at the hands of military personnel during a peaceful protest by women mourning the killings of their children.

"It has been brought to our attention, even before the protests, that there is a sense of complexity on the side of the military, whose primary responsibility is also to protect our people, lives, and property," he explained.

The Commissioner added, "There is this allegation that one of our young chaps died under the hands of the military. That matter is under investigation. And then we have also listened to the account on the side of the military to understand why that situation happened."

The security situation in Benue State has remained volatile, with repeated calls from various stakeholders for more effective interventions. Catholic bishops recently urged President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the region, highlighting the severity of the security challenges facing Benue communities.

As investigations continue, residents of affected communities remain apprehensive about their safety despite the continued military presence in the state.