The Middle Belt Youth Congress (MBYC) has strongly condemned the renewed wave of attacks and killings in communities across the Benue Valley, calling on security agencies to take decisive action to end the persistent bloodshed.
In a statement signed by its President, Obande Gideon, the group described the recent massacre in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State as a tragic and unacceptable assault on innocent citizens.
According to the Congress, the attack on Otobi and surrounding communities on July 12, 2026, in which scores of residents were reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen, was an unprovoked act of violence that has once again exposed the growing insecurity confronting the people of Benue State.
The youth body urged the National Assembly to expedite legislative processes on the proposed State Police Bill, arguing that the establishment of state policing has become imperative in addressing the worsening security challenges across the country.
It also called on the Federal Government, the Benue State Government and local government authorities to rise to their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property, stressing that citizens should not continue to live in fear while communities are repeatedly attacked without adequate response.
The Congress further appealed to security agencies to intensify investigations into the killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, the Benue State leader of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), urging that those responsible be identified and brought to justice in the interest of peace and accountability.
While extending its condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones, the Middle Belt Youth Congress prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and asked God to grant the bereaved families the strength to bear their irreparable loss.
The statement reiterated the group’s commitment to advocating for the protection of lives, justice for victims of violence, and lasting peace across the Middle Belt region.
