Terseer Ugbor, the lawmaker representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency, has called on Benue communities to establish their own self-defence systems in response to relentless attacks by armed groups.
Speaking on Channels Television, Ugbor backed the recent advice from the Director-General of the DSS, who encouraged local self-defense initiatives nationwide.
“Communities will have to defend themselves…set up vigilantes and other systems for protection. This is what Benue needs to do,” Ugbor stated.
The lawmaker criticized the limited effectiveness of state-backed security outfits like Anyam Uyor, introduced by the Benue State Government, noting they have not delivered a meaningful security impact.
Ugbor also highlighted that federal security agencies, including the military and police, are restricted to peacekeeping roles and are not mandated to pursue attackers aggressively:
“When these people come and attack, they retreat. Security forces cannot pursue them across the state.”
On the role of SGF Senator George Akume, Ugbor dismissed claims of sabotage, insisting that the SGF has not hindered any federal allocations or benefits intended for Benue State.