Northern Senators condemn Benue, Kaduna killings, back FG’s security measures

By Henry Umoru ABUJA — Senators from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), under the aegis of the Northern Senators Forum (NSF), have condemned the recent attacks in Benue and Kaduna states that claimed dozens of lives and displaced many residents. The senators described the attacks as tragic and called for coordinated security operations, improved intelligence gathering and sustained investment in Nigeria’s security architecture to address the country’s security challenges. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Chairman of the Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), expressed shock over the incidents and extended condolences to the governments and people of the affected states, as well as the bereaved families.

According to the forum, 13 people were killed in an attack on Efeyi Community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on Tuesday, July 28, while several others sustained injuries. The senators also noted that about 30 people, including women and children, were reportedly killed during an attack on Naridon Village in Kamaru Ward of Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Sunday, July 26. The attack also resulted in the destruction of several homes.

“The Northern Senators Forum condemns the recent attacks in Benue and Kaduna states that resulted in the deaths of dozens of innocent citizens and the displacement of many families,” the statement said. The forum expressed sympathy with the affected communities and pledged support for efforts aimed at restoring peace. The senators also welcomed the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to strengthening national security, particularly President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and the recruitment of an additional 28,000 military personnel.

According to the forum, the expansion is expected to decentralise command structures, strengthen border security and improve response to emerging security threats across the country. The senators described the initiative as a timely intervention capable of enhancing operational effectiveness and restoring public confidence in the nation’s security architecture. They, however, stressed the need for adequate funding, equipment, logistics and improved welfare for military personnel to ensure the success of the expanded formations.