Residents in Otukpo, the administrative center of Benue South District, took to the streets on Tuesday to protest against the rising wave of kidnappings and killings in the area.
The protesters, who marched through major roads in the town chanting war songs, blocked access routes leading into Otukpo from other parts of the state, demanding urgent action from the government and security agencies to tackle the escalating insecurity.
While the protest remained peaceful, it reflected deep frustration over the deteriorating security situation in the town and surrounding areas.
A youth leader from one of the local council wards, who participated in the demonstration, voiced his anger, revealing that the residents were left with no choice but to protest after security forces failed to protect lives and property.
“Otukpo is no longer safe. We can’t sleep with our eyes closed anymore; our communities are under constant threat from armed men and herdsmen. People are killed almost daily, and no action is being taken. The authorities are not making any arrests, and people are living in fear,” he lamented.
“Just yesterday (Monday), a man named Akatu Onche, also known as Okakpo ka Achumedo, was shot in Asa 2 and passed away this morning. How can we continue to live like this, as though we don’t have a government?”
The protestors called on the state government to take immediate action to restore safety and security in Otukpo.
Senator Abba Moro, the Senate Minority Leader and representative for Benue South Senatorial District, expressed his concern over the growing insecurity.
In a statement released by his Media Adviser, Emmanuel John, Senator Moro condemned the recent killings and kidnappings, describing them as a disservice to the people of Otukpo, the headquarters of the Idoma nation.
He urged the government and security forces to fulfill their constitutional duties and take action to apprehend those responsible for these crimes.
“Senator Moro is deeply concerned about the rising insecurity in Otukpo and strongly condemns the recent killings and kidnappings,” the statement read.
“He calls on the government and security agencies at all levels to take decisive steps to arrest the perpetrators and prevent further violence. Nigerians have the right to live freely without fear, and the government must ensure the protection of lives and property.”
Moro also sent his condolences to the families of those killed and expressed hope for the safe return of those still in captivity.
MACBAN Weighs in on Cattle Ranching Debate
In a related development, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) addressed concerns over open grazing and cattle ranching.
At the ongoing Livestock Summit in Makurdi, MACBAN’s President, Baba Ngelzarma, represented by Secretary Bello Gotomo, explained that the association had no objections to modern ranching but emphasized that the transition from traditional cattle grazing to ranching should be gradual.
“The shift from traditional grazing to modern ranching needs to be done step by step,” Ngelzarma said. “While we recognize that the old methods of cattle movement are outdated, we must approach the transition carefully. The high costs involved in establishing and maintaining ranches are a challenge for herders.”
Ngelzarma pointed out that adopting foreign models, such as those from New Zealand or Brazil, might not be feasible for Nigerian herders.
He called for government support to provide locally adapted ranching infrastructure, including access to water, markets, veterinary services, and dairy equipment.
Ngelzarma reiterated that the association was in talks with the Minister of Livestock Development to explore practical solutions for modernizing livestock management while ensuring harmony in Benue State.
