How Insecurity Threatens Benue’s Status as Nigeria’s Food Basket
With over 2,650 lives lost to attacks in Benue State over the past 14 months, the region is on the verge of losing its esteemed title as Nigeria’s food basket. Urgent intervention from President Bola Tinubu is required to restore security and allow residents to return to farming, warns Davidson Iriekpen.
The central concern for many is who will protect Benue from the ongoing violence. Recent reports indicate that bandits have claimed around 50 lives in the Ayati community in Ukum Local Government Area, continuing a decade-long pattern of terror.
Governor Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia has condemned these attacks, expressing frustration that violence persists despite a heavy security presence and ongoing dialogues with local leaders aimed at restoring peace. In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, Alia labeled the attack as “another unprovoked assault” on the community.
Alia has pledged to use all lawful means to safeguard Benue’s residents, especially those in Ukum, and has urged security forces to enhance their surveillance to protect vulnerable areas. The government is also awaiting a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to assess the situation.
The Sankara axis, comprising Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Logo LGAs, remains plagued by criminal activities. On July 3, 2024, a curfew was imposed in Ukum after violent protests destroyed significant property following the murder of 11 people. Despite the curfew, bandits attacked Mbachier council ward in Katsina-Ala LGA on July 19, killing 18.
Benue, known for its rich agricultural produce like yams, rice, and maize, has seen its status as Nigeria’s food basket erode due to persistent insecurity. With banditry and violence rampant, farmers are unable to tend to their crops, contributing to rising food prices and widespread hunger.
Amnesty International reported that from January 2023 to February 2024, nearly 2,600 individuals, primarily women and children, were killed in attacks on 50 communities in Benue. According to Mrs. Barbara Magaji of Amnesty International, 18 out of the state’s 23 LGAs face constant security threats, disrupting agriculture and leaving many unable to farm.
Additionally, the state’s Ministry of Education has reported that at least 55 schools have been destroyed or closed due to insecurity, affecting hundreds of children. The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) noted that from 2015 to June 2023, 5,138 farmers were killed, with the numbers surging significantly in recent years.
Dr. Emmanuel Shior, SEMA’s Executive Secretary, highlighted that ongoing attacks have displaced over two million people across the state. Despite repeated calls for action, both the previous administration and the current government under President Tinubu have not effectively addressed the crisis.
The federal government must act decisively to end the violence in Benue and other affected regions like Zamfara, Katsina, Borno, Plateau, and Taraba. President Tinubu and the relevant authorities need to ensure accountability and implement strategies to restore security and stability.
