The three senators representing Benue State in the National Assembly—Senators Emmanuel Udende (Benue North East), Titus Tartenger Zam (Benue North West), and Abba Moro (Benue South)—have raised alarm over the escalating insecurity in the state. They lamented the continued attacks by herdsmen without any visible efforts to curb the killings.
The senators made their concerns known on Thursday at the burial of Bernard Ortom, the younger brother of former Governor Samuel Ortom, in Gbajimba, the headquarters of Guma Local Government Area.
Senator Udende, who was the first to speak at the solemn event, commended Chief Ortom for his past leadership and dedication to protecting Benue residents during his tenure as governor. He prayed for God to comfort Ortom and his family over the painful loss. Udende also conveyed a distressing message from his constituents, stating that since Ortom left office, many people in Benue North East can no longer access their farms as Fulani herdsmen have taken over their villages.
In his remarks, Senator Zam emphasized the state’s worsening security situation, stating that many now realize the value of Ortom’s efforts in tackling insecurity. According to him, Benue is currently experiencing its worst security crisis, with communities under siege. He prayed for the soul of the deceased and strength for the bereaved family.
Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, also delivered a heartfelt oration, describing the large gathering as a testament to the quality of leadership Ortom provided while in office. However, he expressed deep concern over the failure of the current administration under Governor Hyacinth Alia to collaborate with relevant authorities to address the growing insecurity in the state.
The burial ceremony featured prayers and royal blessings from traditional rulers, including the Kindred Head of Mbabegha, Zaki Emmanuel Iorkyaa, the Ter Guma, Chief Dennis Shemberga, the Ter Gboko, Chief Gabriel Shosun, and the Tor Jemgbagh, Chief David Afaityo Ajoko. Justice Mary Abounu, wife of the former Deputy Governor, also prayed for the grieving family.
Leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), including the state chairman, Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji, and the Guma Local Government chairman, Hon. Simon Anyamkande, delivered funeral orations on behalf of the party.
Responding on behalf of the family, Chief Samuel Ortom expressed gratitude for the overwhelming show of support, saying, “You have wiped our tears, and as we pray for journey mercies back to your various places of abode, we ask God to bless all of you abundantly. May this gesture be extended to others in their times of need.”
The funeral was attended by dignitaries including Rt. Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, members of the Benue State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, clergy, political and religious leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps.
