The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, Benue State, has appealed for prompt humanitarian aid and the launch of effective resettlement initiatives to support the safe return of individuals displaced from communities attacked by alleged armed herders in the state.
This appeal was made in a statement signed by Ali Sule Ako and Daniel Chile, who serve as the union’s chairperson and secretary, respectively, and was shared with the media on Tuesday.
The union denounced the recent violence that targeted residents of Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
Expressing sorrow over the frequent loss of innocent lives, extensive destruction of properties, and worsening insecurity in Benue, the union referred to the Yelwata attack as yet another heartbreaking incident affecting rural communities that must not be ignored.
The union appealed to the country’s security forces to respond quickly, professionally, and justly to stop more violence.
They also asked the federal government to arrest those behind the Yelwata attack and other violent acts in the state and ensure they are prosecuted without delay.
“ASUU-MOAUM urges both the Federal and State Governments to live up to their constitutional responsibility of securing the lives and property of all Nigerians, especially those in rural and vulnerable areas.
“We further call on the nation’s security agencies to act with urgency, diligence, and fairness to prevent further bloodshed.
“Those responsible for these heinous crimes in Benue State must be tracked down and brought to justice without delay.
“We equally call for immediate humanitarian support and the implementation of effective resettlement programmes to aid the safe return and rehabilitation of displaced persons,” the statement read in parts.
The union expressed concern that the government’s failure to prioritise the safety of rural populations in the state poses serious threats to food security, not only in Benue but also across Nigeria.
“In these trying times, we stand with the good people of Benue State and reaffirm our commitment to justice, peace, and the preservation of human life and dignity,” the statement concluded.
