Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, issued a warning yesterday that the residents of Benue State may be compelled to take up arms in self-defence due to the rising incidents of killings in the region.
According to a statement released by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, Mark indicated that the inability of authorities to tackle the ongoing security crisis effectively could lead residents to seek self-help measures.
He characterised the killings, along with the devastation of homes and livelihoods throughout the state, as “senseless, tragic, and unacceptable.”
Mark urged the federal government to fulfil its constitutional duty to safeguard the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
He also called on the Benue State government to enhance its efforts in securing the state and restoring public trust.
Additionally, he appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to remain alert and to assist security agencies in identifying and prosecuting those responsible for these crimes.
“This is the unfortunate reality the Benue people are confronted with. The government must rise to its responsibility or risk leaving the people with no option but to defend themselves,” he said.
“This is a trying time for our people. We must stand together, mobilise, and speak with one voice against the invaders. We must not succumb to fear,” Mark urged.
He urged residents to uphold the law, stay united, and remain dedicated to the lasting principles of community and brotherhood.
In the meantime, President Bola Tinubu has postponed his official trip to Kaduna State and will instead visit Benue State on Wednesday due to the violence occurring in the region.
According to the presidency, this visit is part of renewed initiatives to promote peace and tackle the ongoing conflicts impacting communities in the area.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated in a release that the purpose of the president’s visit is to gain firsthand insight into the recurring crises that have resulted in numerous fatalities and extensive damage.
“During his stay, President Tinubu will meet with all stakeholders—including traditional rulers, political, religious, community leaders, and youth groups—to seek lasting solutions to the hostilities.
“In preparation for the visit, President Tinubu has already dispatched the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and the chairmen of the Senate and House Defence committees to Benue State.
“The president is expected to hold a town hall meeting with all stakeholders during the visit,” the statement read.
President Tinubu previously denounced the persistent violence in the state and urged all leaders and residents to adopt peace, love, and mutual understanding.
He expressed his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to everyone who has experienced losses due to the crises.
As per his itinerary published over the weekend, Tinubu was set to visit Kaduna State on Wednesday to inaugurate several state government projects.
Nevertheless, the official visit is now rescheduled to take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
The post Benue Killing: ‘Residents May Resort To Self-Defense’ – Ex-Senate President, David Mark appeared first on Naija News.