Suspend political endorsements and campaigns, concentrate on restoring security - Agatu community group

Sunday, June 1, 2025 - Amid escalating violence and humanitarian concerns, stakeholders from Agatu Local Government Area have called for an immediate suspension of political endorsements and campaigns.

Community leaders, youth representatives, and women’s groups voiced deep frustration over what they described as insensitive political activities taking place while Agatu residents face persistent attacks, killings, and displacement.

At a stakeholders meeting, which took place on Otukpo on Satuday, included youth representatives, women’s groups, and community leaders, culminated in a communiqué expressing deep concern over the persistent violent attacks, killings, displacement of residents, and destruction of farmlands and properties.

The stakeholders blamed criminal elements and suspected herdsmen for the escalating violence that has shattered peace and disrupted livelihoods across Agatu.

In the communiqué, the group urgently called on the Federal and Benue State Governments, relevant security agencies, and humanitarian organizations to intervene decisively.

Their demands include the immediate deployment of adequate security personnel to vulnerable communities, the restoration of peace to facilitate the safe return and resettlement of displaced persons, and the establishment of a sustainable conflict resolution mechanism involving community participation.

The stakeholders discouraged any form of political endorsement or campaigning during this period of insecurity, describing ongoing political activities amid violence and displacement as irresponsible and insensitive.

“We categorically reject any attempt by political actors or groups to engage in partisan endorsements while our people are under siege,” the communiqué read.

“The current atmosphere of fear and mourning is not conducive to political campaigns or endorsements.”

The group urged all political parties and aspirants in Agatu Local Government Area to suspend political endorsements until peace is fully restored.

They also called on political stakeholders to focus resources and efforts on supporting victims and rebuilding affected communities, warning against divisive actions that could escalate tensions further.