Amid escalating violence and brutal killings in Benue State, legal practitioner Barrister Aida Nath Ogwuche has penned an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pleading for immediate intervention to address the worsening security situation.
The letter, titled "Benue is Bleeding," comes in the aftermath of a devastating attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, where reports indicate over 200 people were massacred in a single night.
A State in Crisis
Ogwuche, who identifies herself as "a mother and daughter of Benue State," painted a grim picture of a region once known as Nigeria's food basket now teetering on the edge of becoming "a mass grave."
"It is with deep concern that I bring to your attention the worsening insecurity in our state. The recent wave of violent attacks, kidnappings, and bloodshed has plunged our people into fear, crippling livelihoods and paralyzing the economy of a state largely sustained by farming," she stated in her letter.
The lawyer highlighted how even essential activities like farming have become life-threatening endeavors for Benue residents. "Countless farmers have been found lifeless on their own farms, murdered simply for striving to feed their families and contribute to society," she wrote.
Call for Decisive Action
In her appeal to President Tinubu, Ogwuche outlined specific measures needed to address the crisis:
- Deployment of additional security forces to Benue State
- Coordination with neighboring states to secure borders
- Strengthened intelligence efforts and community collaboration
- Long-term solutions addressing root causes of violence
- Declaration of a state of emergency in worst-affected areas
"I humbly appeal to you, Mr. President, to heed our cries and intervene to save the lives of Benue's people. We have nowhere else to turn," she implored.
Concluding her letter, Ogwuche emphasized the urgency of the situation: "The people of Benue deserve peace, safety, and the protection of their government. I implore you, Mr. President, to act without delay, lives hang in the balance."
The open letter reflects growing concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Benue State, which has seen numerous attacks on farming communities, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread displacement of residents.
Stay updated with the latest news by following BenriNews on our social media platforms:
