In the face of relentless assaults by herders in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Mr Oije Alade Abih, a resident of Odugbeho community, implores both local authorities and the international community to intervene urgently.
Numerous settlements within the locality have endured attacks, resulting in widespread destruction of property and loss of lives. Abih, speaking from Abuja, emphasised the urgency of the situation, urging government bodies and security forces to address the escalating crisis.
Desperate Pleas for Intervention
Abih recounted his harrowing ordeal, having been abducted while en route to visit his elderly mother in his hometown during the Christmas period.
The incident occurred on December 10, 2023, as he journeyed from Abuja, and only through divine providence and the intervention of state security personnel did he secure his release on December 18th, after the payment of a substantial ransom.
Expressing the gravity of the situation, Abih appealed for immediate action, highlighting the persistent threat posed by marauding herders.
He lamented the wanton destruction and loss of lives that have plagued Agatu, stressing the urgent need for government intervention to safeguard the populace.
Abih further divulged the perilous circumstances he faced, recounting how he narrowly escaped an attempted assassination at his new residence in New Karu, Nasarawa State.
Identifying one of his assailants from a previous abduction, Abih underscored the relentless pursuit of those seeking to silence him.
In a chilling revelation, he disclosed an attempted assault on January 22, 2024, underscoring the persistent danger that looms over him and his community.
Despite notifying local authorities, Abih remains in hiding, fearing for his life amidst the ongoing threats.
The urgency of the situation was further underscored by the tragic loss of three lives in a subsequent attack on January 31st, 2024.
Abih’s impassioned plea reverberates as he implores relevant authorities and the international community to intervene decisively to stem the tide of violence and restore peace to their beleaguered community.
