The Senate has called on the Chief of Defence Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, and heads of other security agencies to intensify coordinated operations to apprehend those responsible for the latest wave of killings in Benue State.
The upper chamber also urged the Federal Government to immediately deploy additional military and paramilitary personnel to affected communities, particularly in Apa Local Government Area, to restore law and order.
Lawmakers further called for a long-term strategy to address recurring farmer-herder conflicts, including ranching policies, land reforms, and community-based conflict resolution mechanisms.
The resolutions followed a motion sponsored by Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, who raised alarm over the killing of several residents in Ankpali-Edikwu community, Apa LGA, on April 12, 2026.
The attackers were suspected armed herders.
Senators noted that the incident reflects a pattern of recurring violence across rural communities, resulting in loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of property.
They warned that worsening insecurity is disrupting farming activities and poses a serious threat to food security.
The Senate also mandated its Committees on Defence, Army, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to investigate the attacks and recommend sustainable solutions.
It directed the establishment of a Police Area Command and a military base in Apa and Agatu LGAs, and called for increased funding for security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response.
While commending ongoing efforts by security agencies, the Senate stressed the need for a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach.
However, a recommendation urging the Benue State Government to take greater responsibility for security was rejected.
The chamber observed a minute silence in honour of the victims.
(Editor: Ada Ononye)
