Benue attacks not accidental – David Mark fumes over Otobi-Akpa, Emichi and Utonkon killings

A former Senate President, David Mark has condemned the killing of several residents in Otobi-Akpa, Emichi in Otukpo Local Government Area and Utonkon in Ado LGA in Benue state.

Mark described the attacks and subsequent killings by suspected herdsmen as well-organised and premeditated attacks on the people of Benue state.

In a statement issued by Paul Mumeh, the special adviser to Mark said the former lawmaker expressed worry over the attacks on his people.

Mumeh said Mark while noting that enough is enough has urged the people to mobilise themselves into groups of vigilantes to prevent further invasion by the attackers.

He said, “The situation in parts of Benue state today cannot be said to be ordinary or accidental. It seems to me that it is an organised and premeditated action. We can no longer stand to watch our people killed needlessly for no just cause”, he stressed.

“In as much as our people should accommodate others in our communities, we must as a matter of necessity differentiate between legitimate residents and invaders,” Mark said.

Also calling for calm among residents of the affected community, Mark called on security agencies across Nigeria to stay alive to their responsibilities of securing the lives and property of the people in the state.

He also condoled with the families of those who have lost their loved ones in these attacks.