A group of young individuals from Apa, Benue State have expressed concern over the alleged protection provided by Nigerian Army operatives to the herdsmen responsible for the ongoing attacks in the local government area.
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It is important to note that a tragic incident occurred in Apa local government area, resulting in the loss of over 100 lives, including those of traditional leaders. The perpetrators of this heinous act are believed to be herdsmen who are currently under suspicion.
The incident incited a large-scale demonstration by local adolescents, resulting in the obstruction of the Oweto-Loko/Abuja motorway.
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Ahmed Ocheje, a prominent youth leader in the region, has recently made a statement to the press, urging the Commandants of the NASME Barracks and 72nd Special Forces Battalion Makurdi to provide clarity on the nature of their mission in Apa. Ocheje’s call for transparency comes amidst growing concerns among Nigerians regarding the presence of military personnel in the area.
According to the youth leader, the marauding herdsmen continue to carry out their acts of terror without any resistance, despite the presence of military personnel.
According to the speaker, he hails from a distinct community known as Ikobi. Since the second day of January, our community has been subjected to repeated attacks by individuals identified as herdsmen. Residents of that particular community are prohibited from inhabiting these locations.
Our team has visited the local government headquarters in Ugbokpo. Several communities in Ikobi, namely Okpa, Olopka, Ijaha, Igbobi, Imana, and Akpete, have reportedly been abandoned. The aforementioned locations have been abandoned. Which government would fail to fulfil its duty of protecting its citizens?
The government may perceive the vocalisation of the youth as a source of unrest. The individuals in question deny any intent to cause disruption or disturbance. Since the morning hours, we have been engaged in peaceful protest, refraining from any acts of violence or aggression.
It has been reported that individuals of the Fulani ethnic group have been observed utilising both traditional farming tools and firearms, specifically AK47s, while engaging in cattle herding activities. There appears to be a lack of willingness to speak up.
The Fulani ethnic group appears to possess a certain level of immunity in their operations that is not fully comprehended by the Nigerian populace. If a certain group of individuals holds more authority than the general populace, it is imperative for the government to disclose this information to the public.
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In the locality of Igbobi within this jurisdiction, a prominent chieftain was tragically slain and the ceremonial sceptre that symbolises their authority was forcibly seized by individuals believed to be of the herder community. Do you expect us to remain silent? The public is calling for clear and concise communication from the government regarding individual placement within the societal hierarchy.
Do we, as individuals, hold the status of citizens within this nation? As an inquisitive individual, I am seeking responses to my inquiries. Despite the presence of soldiers within the communities, the Fulani herdsmen continue to pose a grave threat to the safety and security of local residents, as they persist in carrying out brutal beheadings. What is the purpose of their presence? Are the authorities ensuring our safety? Are they providing guidance to the communities? The individual inquired, “Are they engaging in frivolous activities with our livelihoods?”
