Dr. David Olofu, the 2027 Benue South Senatorial district hopeful, has called on the Federal Government to take decisive and urgent steps to curb recurrent attacks by suspected herdsmen in parts of the senatorial district, which have continued to claim lives and displace entire communities. In a personally‑signed statement issued yesterday, Olofu expressed deep concern over what he described as “persistent and unprovoked assaults” on communities in Ohimini and Ado Local Government Areas.
He specifically mentioned recent attacks on Anwule‑Oglewu and Rijo communities, which left several people dead and property worth millions of naira destroyed. “These unbridled attacks by murderous herdsmen have turned our communities into perpetual targets,” Olofu lamented. He added: “The situation is unacceptable and must be stopped by the Federal Government. Those responsible for internal security must rise to the challenge and stem this hydra‑headed monster.”
A former Commissioner for Finance in Benue State, Olofu accused governments at all levels of treating the crisis with levity, noting that the response has not inspired confidence among citizens living under the shadow of insecurity. He also advocated for community‑led security initiatives, urging youths and able‑bodied men to form vigilante groups where state security agencies have failed. “Security is every man’s business and should no longer be left to the government alone. As it stands, our people are left with no option but to take their destinies into their own hands,” he said.
Describing the killings and destruction as a “carefully orchestrated carnage” aimed at displacing indigenous populations, Olofu urged the Federal Government to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure lasting peace. He further appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief materials to victims, many of whom have been rendered homeless and destitute.
Olofu, who is contesting the Benue South Senatorial seat under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2027, said his call adds to growing voices demanding a robust and sustainable response from the Federal Government to protect vulnerable rural communities.
