A United Kingdom-based security expert and political analyst, Jamesleo Oche, has raised the alarm over the growing wave of attacks and killings in Benue South.
He warned that continued silence from leaders and stakeholders could embolden criminal elements and worsen the crisis.
Oche, who described the spate of violence as “disastrous and therefore unacceptable”; stressed that the lack of “coordinated defence and offensive”; against the terrorists is giving them more morale to attack.
Addressing newsmen via Zoom on Tuesday, the security expert called for immediate action of the government, security agencies, traditional rulers, and political representatives, urging them to treat the security of lives and property in the region as a non-negotiable priority.
“When communities are attacked and people are killed in large numbers without solution, it sends a message that our lives don’t matter,”; Oche said.
“The inaction of local and national actors is unacceptable.”;
He urged local leaders, especially elected representatives and traditional rulers, to move beyond political rhetoric and confront the crisis head-on.
“Security in Benue South must never be politicized. It’s not about party lines, it’s about human lives.”;
“The people cannot farm, they cannot sleep, they live in fear every day, this is no longer acceptable,”; he added.
Oche also emphasized the urgent need for a community-based security framework, noting that over-reliance on overstretched federal forces will not yield sustainable peace.
“We need local intelligence. We need trusted eyes and ears on the ground. Community policing isn’t a luxury anymore, it’s a necessity.”;
Calling for a security summit involving stakeholders from across the zone, he said: “It’s time Benue South security stakeholders sat at one table, traditional leaders, youth groups, vigilante commanders, elected officials, and security agencies. We must speak with one voice.
“You were elected to protect lives and property. This is the moment to show leadership. History will not forgive inaction and silence.”;
