COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED BY AGATU STAKEHOLDERS ON THE STATE OF INSECURITY AND POLITICAL ENDORSEMENTS IN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT.
Date: 31/05/2025.
Venue: Xclusive Wine Bar Otukpo.
We, the concerned stakeholders of Agatu Local Government Area, , youth representatives, women groups, and, after an extensive deliberation on the prevailing issues affecting our people, hereby issue the following communiqué:
1. Insecurity in Agatu: A Call for Urgent Action
We express deep concern over the persistent and escalating insecurity in Agatu, marked by violent attacks, killings, displacement of innocent citizens, and destruction of farmlands and property by criminal elements and suspected herdsmen. These incessant attacks have led to the loss of lives, disruption of livelihoods, and the breakdown of community peace.
We call on the Federal and Benue State Governments, relevant security agencies, and humanitarian organizations to act swiftly and decisively.
Immediate deployment of adequate security personnel to vulnerable communities.
Restoration of peace and security to allow safe return and resettlement of displaced persons.
A sustainable conflict resolution mechanism involving community participation.
2. Discouragement of Political Endorsements Amid Insecurity
We categorically discourage and reject any attempt by political actors or groups to engage in partisan endorsements or politicking
while our people are under siege. The current atmosphere of fear, displacement, and mourning is not conducive to political campaigns or endorsements.
It is irresponsible and insensitive to prioritize political interests over the safety and survival of our people. We urge all political parties, aspirants, and
stakeholders to:
Suspend political endorsements until peace is restored in our local government Agatu.
Focus efforts and resources on supporting victims and
rebuilding affected communities.
Avoid any divisive political actions that may aggravate tensions within the Local Government .
3) On the issue of zoning, it is insensitive to discuss zoning in the midst of massive insecurity, when the time comes, water will find its level..
4) Conclusion
In these trying times, what Agatu needs is solidarity, justice, and security — not divisive politics or neglect. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize peace, equity, and the well-being of our people above political ambitions.
We reaffirm our collective resolve to work together for a secure, united, and prosperous Agatu.
Signed:
1) H E sir John Ngbede
2) RT Honourable Godwin Abuh Edoh
3) Hon Melvin Ejeh represented by Hon Peter Ilah
3) RT Honourable Yakubu Ochepo
4) Hon. Sule Adanu
5) Alhaji Isa Usman
6) Hon Danjuma Sule
7) Hon sule Adoyi
8) Hon Joseph Ngbede
9) Hon Usman Alilu
10) Hon Musa Umar
11) Hon Mohammed Audu
12) Elder Fodio Achebgani
13) Imanche Dominic
14) Elder John Edo
15) Alhaji Yunusa Audu
16) Hon Charles Adanu
17) Hon Michael Oyigocho
18) Hon Emmanuel Uja
19) Hon Zainab Yayaha and others
Signed comrade Abu Elijah Adaegahi. Secretary