My constituents still under herdsmen attack – Rep.

A member of the Federal House of Representatives for Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency of Benue state, Rep. Bob Tyough has raised the alarm that his constituents are still under attack despite the presence of ‘Operation Wild Stroke’.

The House member while acknowledging the commitment and gallantry of the military in the state, however, raised objection to the claim by Major General Yekini that gives the impression that total peace has returned to state and that the people are no longer under attack.

“As the member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, I can authoritatively say that my people are still being attacked on daily basis by herdsmen militia. Just yesterday, four persons were killed and many others injured at Waya community in Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area,” the lawmaker revealed.

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According to the lawmaker, the commander’s assertion that his job does not include arresting cows on the streets is misleading, pointing out that herdsmen invade some communities with sophisticated weapons and kill innocent people.

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“So, if such attacks do not fall within the mandate of the military operation, then, I wonder what else their mandate is,” he asked.

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The lawmaker stated that he also read the comments credited to Governor Samuel Ortom, saying the governor’s statement implies that as much as the military have done well in the state, a lot more needs to be done to ensure that Benue state communities are safer such that people can return to their ancestral homes.

“In my opinion, Major General Yekini ought to have seen Gov. Ortom’s call as a voice of support. He and his team have no doubt done a commendable job, but they are also aware that their capacity needs to be strengthened to enable them do better,” Rep. Tyough added.

According to him, Kwande Local Government Area has only 35 police officers and wondered how 35 policemen will guarantee the safety of lives and property in an entire local government area. 

The Benue state Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, who confirmed the incident however, said only three persons were killed during the attack.