Benue State, once known as Nigeria's food basket, has been severely impacted by insecurity, with Rep. Dickson Tarkighir describing it as an "empty basket" due to the worsening security situation. The lawmaker, representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, highlighted that farmers have been unable to access their ancestral lands for nearly a decade due to consistent bloodshed.
Causes of Insecurity
- *Violent Attacks*: The state has experienced numerous violent attacks, including the recent massacre in Guma Local Government Area, where gunmen killed over 200 people, including farmers and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
- *Displacement*: Thousands of residents have been displaced, resulting in a dire humanitarian situation.
- *Farming Disruptions*: The attacks have disrupted agricultural activities, leading to food shortages and economic hardship.
Consequences
- *Loss of Livelihoods*: Farmers are unable to access their lands, leading to loss of livelihoods and food insecurity.
- *Humanitarian Crisis*: The displacement of people has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with many in need of relief supplies and medical aid.
- *Economic Impact*: The insecurity has had a significant economic impact on the state, with Benue losing its position as Nigeria's food basket to Ebonyi State ¹ ².
Call to Action
The House of Representatives has called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and relevant ministries and agencies to provide urgent relief supplies and medical assistance to the victims. The lawmakers have also urged the federal government to establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Nigerian Army in Yelewata to prevent future attacks ¹ ³.
