Amid worsening insecurity in Benue State, a former Senate President, David Mark, has raised the alarm over the continuous killings in the state, warning that residents may be left with no option but to defend themselves if the government fails in its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.

Mark disclosed this in a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, on Sunday in Abuja, as he described the wave of attacks and killings across Benue communities as “senseless, tragic, and unacceptable.”

He cautioned that the deteriorating security situation has reached a tipping point, where citizens may soon resort to self-help to stay alive.

“This is the unfortunate reality the Benue people are confronted with. 

“Government must rise to its responsibility, or risk leaving the people with no option but to defend themselves,” Mark said.

The former Senate President lamented the sustained loss of lives and destruction of property in the state, reiterating that the foremost duty of any government is to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens.

“Any deviation from this mandate constitutes a gross disservice to the people,” he added.

Senator Mark called on the federal government to urgently fulfil its constitutional obligation to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians, stressing that citizens should never be left at the mercy of armed attackers.

He also charged the Benue State government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, to scale up efforts toward restoring peace and security across troubled communities.

In his appeal for grassroots collaboration, Mark urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and work closely with security agencies to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the violence.

He expressed deep solidarity with the people of Benue, encouraging them to stand united in the face of adversity.

Mark said,”This is a trying moment for our people.

“We must unite, mobilise, and speak with one voice against the invaders. We must refuse to bow to fear.”

While acknowledging the pain and provocation that victims have endured, the elder statesman urged residents to remain law-abiding and not take the law into their hands, but rather continue to exhibit the values of resilience, peace, and communal support.

“Despite the ongoing provocations, we must remain law-abiding, stay united, and uphold the enduring spirit of being our brothers’ keeper,” Mark concluded.

[Punch]