Violence and Crime on the Taraba-Benue Border: Lawmaker Urges Enhanced Intelligence and Vigilance

In the face of gruesome violence and crime, a Nigerian lawmaker is calling on communities along the Taraba-Benue border to enhance local intelligence and vigilance to support security agencies in protecting the areas.

Mark Bako Useni, the lawmaker representing Takum/Ussa/Donga Federal Constituency, made the plea on Tuesday while reacting to the recent killing of six passengers in Takum Local Government Council of Taraba State by suspected gunmen. This devastating incident follows the brutal murder of the traditional ruler of Chachanji in Takum Council, along with his son, barely a month ago.

Describing the killings as “barbaric,” Useni emphasized that the criminal elements responsible have developed a cruel strategy of following local farmers to their farms, kidnapping them for ransom, and exacerbating hunger in the region. He called on communities on both sides of the Taraba-Benue border to work together to enhance intelligence and vigilance, enabling security agencies to effectively protect the areas.

The lawmaker also commended the state’s governor for his prompt action on security concerns and suggested a strong synergy between the Taraba and Benue state governments to tackle this persistent problem. He urged affected communities to remain calm, allowing security agencies to address the situation, while committing to reach out to his colleagues on the Benue side to offer support in securing the lives and property of the people.

Useni’s plea comes as tensions continue to rise in the region, with residents living in fear of crime and violence. The situation highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts between local communities, government agencies, and security forces to bring peace and stability to the affected areas.