 Asema Achado.){kind=link}
Benue State’s Gwer West Local Government Area has once again been struck by violent attacks attributed to suspected Fulani militia, sparking outrage from the Member of the House of Representatives for Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, Arc. (Dr.) Asema Achado.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 20, 2024, Hon. Achado expressed deep concern over the continued violence and criticized Governor Hyacinth Alia’s perceived inaction in addressing the situation.
Hon. Achado expressed sadness over the repeated herders’ attacks, which have left residents in fear and despair. He specifically called out Governor Alia for his silence on the matter, urging him to take immediate action to combat the insecurity threatening the lives and livelihoods of the people in Benue State.
Achado pointedly questioned the apparent lack of enforcement of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law since Governor Alia assumed office in May 2023.
The law, which was enacted to curb open grazing and reduce farmer-herder conflicts, has been dormant under the current administration, according to the lawmaker. Achado emphasized that protecting the citizens is a fundamental responsibility of the government, which must be upheld through decisive action and effective legislation.
As part of efforts to address insecurity, Achado noted that he and other members of the Benue State Caucus in the National Assembly have sponsored bills and raised motions in the Senate and House of Representatives.
These actions, he said, have resulted in increased federal support from President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including funding to help Benue State tackle the escalating insecurity.
Achado reiterated the need for the immediate enforcement of the anti-open grazing law, arguing that it would provide a sustainable solution to the ongoing attacks on Benue farmers.
He stressed that the violence has caused significant emotional and psychological harm to the affected communities, in addition to disrupting farming activities.
“The relentless violence must end. Our farmers are the backbone of our economy, yet they live in constant fear,” Achado said, calling on the Benue State Government to act swiftly to end the attacks. He warned that Governor Alia’s silence on the issue could be interpreted as complicity.
In his statement, Achado extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attacks and encouraged the Tyoshin community and others affected to remain resilient in the face of adversity.
He also urged the government to adopt a comprehensive security strategy involving community engagement and collaboration with law enforcement to effectively address the insecurity plaguing the region.
The lawmaker concluded by reaffirming his commitment to seeking solutions that would ensure the safety and well-being of his constituents.