BENUE KILLINGS: RESIDENTS MAY DEFEND THEMSELVES IF GOVT FAILS – DAVID MARK
By IDNN Security & Governance Desk
Former Senate President David Mark has issued a grave warning in the wake of the recent Benue massacre, declaring that residents may be forced to defend themselves if the Nigerian government continues to fail in securing their lives and property.
In a statement delivered by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, Mark described the bloodshed across Guma and other Benue communities as “senseless, tragic, and unacceptable.”
“This is the unfortunate reality Benue people are confronted with,” he said. “If the government does not rise to its responsibility, the people may have no option but to defend themselves.”
“WHEN GOVT FAILS, PEOPLE WILL PROTECT THEMSELVES”
Mark, who hails from the troubled state, expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing massacres, particularly the slaughter of women, children, and security personnel, and called it a complete breakdown of constitutional duty.
He reiterated that the primary function of any government is to protect its citizens, and warned that continued failure would trigger a wave of self-defence across rural communities already pushed to the edge.
“Any deviation from this mandate is a gross disservice to the people,” he said.
CALL FOR URGENT ACTION
Mark urged President Tinubu’s administration to immediately deploy effective countermeasures, intensify surveillance, and pursue justice for victims of the Benue massacre.
He also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to bolster state-level responses and establish community defense and intelligence frameworks in collaboration with local leaders.
“We must mobilise, unite, and speak with one voice. We must refuse to bow to fear,” Mark said.
STAKEHOLDER UNITY AND CAUTION
David Mark advised residents to remain law-abiding and not take the law into their own hands, even as they defend their communities. He appealed to traditional rulers and grassroots leaders to work closely with security agencies to identify the perpetrators.
“This is a trying moment. But we must uphold peace and communal support,” he stated.
