Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), has urged the Federal Government to seek US assistance to tackle banditry and terror attacks in northern Nigeria. Additionally, he criticised northern governors for downplaying attacks on Christians. Pogu said they have failed to take decisive action to protect citizens.
Rising Killings and Abductions
In recent weeks, violence has intensified across northern communities. On Tuesday, bandits killed three people and kidnapped 35 others at Christ Apostolic Church in Oke Isegun, Eruku, Kwara State. The victims were attending a thanksgiving service. Meanwhile, this attack followed the abduction of 26 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State. Tragically, the school’s Vice Principal, Hassan Makuku, was murdered.
The Federal Government, through Secretary George Akume, blamed former US President Donald Trump’s statements for emboldening violent groups. The posts alleged “Christian genocide” and threatened US troops. Consequently, some groups may feel justified in targeting soft communities.
Governors Must Step Up
Pogu said northern governors, not the US, should be held accountable. They can influence civil defence and local security agencies to respond faster and more effectively. Therefore, he insisted that local leadership cannot shift responsibility abroad.
“The best approach is for governors to admit these attacks are real. Then, they should ask the Federal Government to partner with the US to stop them,” Pogu said. Moreover, he warned against attempts to impose Sharia or other religious practices on unwilling populations, as such moves would worsen tensions.
Criticism of Benue State Governor
Pogu criticised Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia for denying that targeted killings constitute ethnic or religious genocide. In contrast, Pogu argued that ignoring the scale of killings in Tiv communities is dangerous.
“If hundreds of Christians are killed and churches are burned, denying it undermines safety and accountability,” Pogu said. He compared the violence in Benue to Boko Haram’s attacks in Chibok. However, the scale of killings in Benue has been even more severe.
Urgent Call for Action
Pogu stressed that the Federal Government must act decisively. Furthermore, he urged collaboration with local authorities and international partners. Only through coordinated action can communities be protected and further bloodshed prevented.
