Residents of Otukpo, the administrative headquarters of Benue South District, took to the streets on Monday to protest against the increasing incidents of kidnappings and killings in the town.
In a demonstration that blocked key roads leading into the town, angry protesters chanted war songs and called for urgent action from both the state government and security agencies to address the growing insecurity in the area.
The protest was peaceful, but the frustration of the residents was evident as they expressed concerns over their safety.
A youth leader from one of the local council wards explained that the community had no choice but to take to the streets after security agents failed to ensure the safety of lives and property.
“Otukpo is no longer safe; we can’t sleep peacefully anymore,” he said. “Our communities are attacked almost daily by armed men and herdsmen. People are being killed, but no action is being taken. No arrests are made, and the attacks keep increasing. Many people have fled their homes out of fear for their lives.”
He continued, “Just yesterday, Akatu Onche, also known as Okakpo ka Achumedo, was shot in Asa 2 and died this morning. This can’t go on any longer. We need the government to act and ensure the safety of the people.”
Senator Abba Moro, the Senate Minority Leader representing Benue South Senatorial District, expressed deep concern over the violence and kidnappings in Otukpo. In a statement released by his Media Adviser, Emmanuel John, the senator condemned the attacks and urged the government and security agencies to take immediate action.
Moro stated, “The recent killings and kidnappings in Otukpo are deeply troubling. The people behind these crimes are doing Otukpo a serious disservice, and it is vital that the government and security forces rise to the occasion to prevent further violence. Every Nigerian has the right to live and move freely without fear.”
He also extended his condolences to the families of those killed and wished for the safe return of those kidnapped.
MACBAN Supports Gradual Transition to Ranching
In a related development, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has addressed concerns about the future of cattle grazing in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Livestock Summit in Makurdi, MACBAN’s President, Baba Ngelzarma, represented by Secretary Bello Gotomo, explained that the transition from traditional open grazing to modern ranching requires a gradual approach.
Ngelzarma emphasized that while the association supports modernization, the high costs involved in setting up ranches pose a significant challenge. He stated, “We can’t abandon traditional grazing overnight; it’s a gradual process. Moving cattle the way we did in the 1960s is no longer practical, and we, as pastoralists, are open to adopting modern livestock management techniques.”
He urged the government to create conditions that allow for a smooth transition, offering support tailored to the specific needs of local herders.
“We need a level playing field for herders and locally appropriate ranching solutions,” he said, cautioning that imported models may not work in Nigeria’s context.
MACBAN is currently in discussions with the Ministry of Livestock Development to establish village reserves with essential infrastructure like water, veterinary services, and market access to facilitate the transition to ranching while ensuring peaceful coexistence between herders and local communities.