By Joshua Uloko
In the heart-wrenching saga of violence and displacement plaguing the Apa and Agatu Local Government Areas of Benue State, one voice has continued to rise above the silence — that of Hon. Ojotu Ojema, the Honourable Member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency. As his constituents endure relentless attacks by suspected armed herdsmen, Hon. Ojema has consistently championed their cause, speaking truth A power and demanding justice in the face of government inaction.
The recent spate of killings in these communities has once again laid bare the tragic consequences of Nigeria’s security lapses. Dozens of villagers have been killed in cold blood, ancestral lands torched, and homes reduced to ashes. It is a humanitarian crisis that should command national urgency. Yet, it is through the persistent efforts of leaders like Hon. Ojema that these tragedies are not swept under the carpet.
On the floor of the National Assembly, Hon. Ojotu Ojema has passionately brought the plight of his people to national attention. He has called for stronger military intervention, justice for the victims, and permanent solutions to the root causes of these conflicts. His vocal advocacy has reignited conversations on security reform, land use policy, and the urgent need to fully implement the anti-open grazing law already in place in Benue State.
Hon. Ojema’s visits to affected communities, his direct engagement with displaced persons, and his insistence on accountability have not gone unnoticed. In a political climate where many choose silence or indifference, he has chosen action. His efforts exemplify what responsive representation should look like—deeply rooted in the welfare and safety of the people.
But Hon. Ojema cannot do it alone.
The federal government must urgently complement his efforts with a coordinated security response and concrete policy actions. This includes immediate deployment of additional security personnel, aerial surveillance of forested hideouts, prosecution of arrested attackers, and comprehensive support for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Beyond the immediate, Nigeria must embrace a sustainable strategy that addresses land-use conflicts, herder migration patterns, and the illegal arms trade fueling these attacks. Traditional rulers, civil society, and religious leaders also have roles to play in promoting peaceful coexistence and fostering inter-community dialogue.
The killings in Apa and Agatu must stop. The cries of widows, orphans, and displaced families must no longer be met with empty condolences. We must match the courage of leaders like Hon. Ojotu Ojema with decisive action. Anything less is a betrayal of our shared humanity.
Peace is not a gift—it is a product of justice, equity, and courageous leadership. And in Hon. Ojema, Apa and Agatu have a voice that refuses to be silenced.
Cityprde is doing a wonderful job unveiling issues that is swept under the carpet and a voice to voiceless Apa-Agatu and IWILI Adoka on herder’s massacre in these community