Apostle Johnson Suleman, Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries in Auchi, Edo State, has called on Benue residents to take up self-defense measures following persistent herdsmen attacks on communities across the state.
In a strongly-worded statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Suleman criticized the federal government for what he described as inaction and a failed security architecture amid ongoing bloodshed in Benue and other parts of the country.
"If the federal govt knows it's overwhelmed or its security architecture has failed, they should be humble enough to tell the citizens... Self-defence is enshrined in the constitution.. I said it when I went to Jos and Benue.. we can't watch this continue," Suleman stated.
The cleric emphasized his message with a direct appeal: "PEOPLE OF BENUE, DEFEND YOURSELF.. What is happening in Benue state is evil, barbaric and a mayhem."
Politicians Criticized for 2027 Focus
Suleman also took aim at politicians who he believes are more concerned with the upcoming 2027 elections than addressing the immediate security challenges facing citizens.
"It's ridiculous that people are thinking of 2027 whilst mayhem is being unleashed in 2025 on citizens they are supposed to govern.. what happened to your humanity?" he questioned.
The pastor's call for self-defense comes amid reports of escalating violence in Benue State, where herdsmen attacks have resulted in numerous casualties and displacement of communities.
Suleman's statement aligns with recent comments from other religious leaders, including Pastor Paul Adefarasin who reportedly declared "enough is enough" regarding the Benue killings.
Governor Alia of Benue State has previously acknowledged the security challenges, noting that attacks are concentrated in three local government areas and attributing some incidents to local collaboration, claiming that "they show killers the way."
The situation continues to draw criticism from political figures, with Peter Obi reportedly condemning President Tinubu for not visiting Benue amid the ongoing killings.
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