Five members of the Benue State House of Assembly had a close call with death on Thursday night as they narrowly escaped an attack by suspected armed herdsmen in Tyo-Mu community, Gwer Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The lawmakers encountered the armed herdsmen while en route from Katsina-Ala LGA to attend a public hearing on a bill for the establishment of Benue State Civil Protection Guards.
According to a statement released in Makurdi by the Chairman of the State Assembly Committee on Information and Orientation, Elias Audu, the lawmakers’ convoy was ambushed by the armed men around 10 pm.
The assailants, who had laid siege to Tyo-Mu and Mbakera communities for several hours, opened fire on the lawmakers’ convoy.
Elias Audu condemned the attack, labeling it as unwarranted. He called on security agencies to apprehend the attackers and ensure that they face justice for their actions.
The statement read in part: “Members of 10th Benue State House of Assembly were returning from Katsina-Ala after a Public Hearing on a Bill for a Law to Provide for the Establishment of Benue State Civil Protection Guards and for the purposes connected therewith, when suspected herders numbering more than 40 on motorcycles ambushed them at Tyo-Mu and shot severally at the vehicles conveying them.
“Those attacked includes the Majority Leader, Saater Tiseer, the Chief Whip Ipusu Bemdoo, Samuel Jiji of Logo State Constituency, Simon Gabo of Mata State Constituency and Cephas Dyaku of Konshisha.
“Also recall that residents of Tyo-mu community and Mbakera had also been invaded by these suspected herders for several days unchallenged.
“The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh is worried that the mode of operation of the attackers showed that the attack was carefully planned by the herders who are enemies of the State.
“The Speaker is also worried that the attack on members on a day of public hearing on a security bill is more worrisome saying it might not be a coincidence.
“He stated that the House would remain committed and resolute in carrying out her legislative assignment in the interest of the State. The House also call on security agents to immediately arrest the terrorist and bring them to Justice.”
The incident is yet to be confirmed by the state Police Command.
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges facing Benue State, particularly in areas where herders attacks are common.
Efforts to establish a Civil Protection Guard in the state reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing security and protecting the lives and property of its citizens.
However, such efforts are hindered by persistent acts of violence perpetrated by armed groups.