Stakeholders in Kogi State have raised serious concern over the escalating violence in Benue State, and urged the federal government to act decisively to end the killings and avert a national food crisis.
The concern was raised during a reception in honour of the Kogi State Head of Service, (HoS), Elijah Evinemi, in Lokoja, organised by a committee of friends.
Speakers at the event, they described the situation in Benue as a growing national concern and emergency that threatens livelihoods.
In their various submissions, they commended President Bola Tinubu for the steps taken so far to solve the security situation in the country, particularly his recent visit to Benue to reassure the people of the government’s commitment to their safety.
Speaking with journalists, the rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Dr. Salisu Usman Ogbo, stressed the economic significance of Benue to the nation.
“Benue is widely known as the food basket of the nation,” he said, “From grains to vegetables and livestock, the state plays a central role in feeding millions across Nigeria. If this violence continues, we risk plunging the country into a major food crisis.”
The state’s Head of Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, re-echoed the concern, urging the federal government to take swift and strategic action to restore peace in Benue.
“This is not just a Benue problem; it is a national concern,” Evinemi stated, “We cannot sit back and watch a vital food-producing region descend into chaos.”
Also speaking, the special adviser to Governor Ahmed Ododo on labour matters, Comrade Onuh Edoka, called for coordinated efforts to tackle the root causes of the conflict, including land disputes, criminality and the displacement of communities.
The traditional ruler of Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty Muhammed Tijani Anaje, urged a multi-sectoral approach, combining military intervention with community reconciliation.
Kogi State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Gabriel Amari, added that the economic implications could be dire if decisive steps were not taken.
