The All Progressives Congress (APC), Benue State Chapter, strongly condemns unreservedly, the gruesome and unprovoked killing of innocent citizens by armed Fulani bandits in what has now come to be known as the “Mbalom Easter Massacre,” which occurred in Agena, Mbatsada, Mbalom, in Gwer-East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The reported killing of over 30 persons, with 17 corpses already recovered and several others still missing, is not only barbaric but a direct assault on the peace, dignity, and existence of the Benue people. This senseless act of violence represents one attack too many and bears all the markings of a calculated and coordinated Genocide against our people.
The APC stands in total solidarity with the grieving people of Mbalom and the entire Gwer-East community in this painful period of loss and mourning. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones and those still searching for missing relatives.
We call on the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to, as a matter of urgency, visit the affected communities to commiserate with the victims and provide immediate relief and support. Leadership demands empathy and presence, especially in times of tragedy, as demonstrated by governors in other parts of the country facing similar crises.
Furthermore, we urge the Benue State Government to rise to its primary constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property. The continued vulnerability of our rural communities is unacceptable and must be decisively addressed.
We also call on security agencies and the Nigerian military to take immediate and proactive steps by establishing super camps in identified flashpoints across the state. This will serve as a deterrent and provide much-needed protection for our people who live in constant fear of attacks.
Let it be made clear: if adequate and effective security measures are not urgently put in place, the people may be left with no option but to explore lawful means of defending themselves against these persistent attacks.
Benue State has bled for far too long. This cycle of violence must come to an end. Enough is enough.
Daniel Ihomun
State Publicity Secretary
APC Benue State
6th March 2026
