Group calls for strengthening of security in Benue over influx of herdsmen

Following the influx of Fulani herdsmen into Benue State and the attendant recent killings in Kwande local area of the state, the Civil Society Organizations in the State have called for the strengthening of security across the state.

Addressing newsmen in Makurdi yesterday, the Executive Director CORAFID Centre for Innovation and Research, Nathaniel Msen Awuapila also called on Benue State Government to strengthen a homegrown local security apparatus to support and complement federal government security efforts.

The Civil Society Organizations which decried the renewed attacks on Benue communities by Fulani herdsmen called on the local government areas of the state to render support to security agencies where necessary.

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Awuapila said, “Security agencies should as a matter of urgency strengthen security intervention across the state, particularly Operation Whirl Stroke should show more commitment towards prevention rather than a response to attacks.

“All tiers of government should increase their logistics support to military and para-military agencies operating in the state.

“Benue State government should deepen border security surveillance and enhance joint intelligence information gathering and sharing to enhance violence prevention capacity both at the local and regional level.

He called for urgent steps to ensure that IDPs safely return to their original habitations within the shortest time possible.