Agatu Cries for Help: LG Chairman Urges FG to Rebuild War-Torn Benue Communities

The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, Melvin Ejeh, has made an emotional appeal to the Federal Government, seeking immediate assistance to rebuild communities devastated by persistent attacks reportedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen. His call came after a rigorous eight-hour assessment tour covering 15 ravaged settlements in Usha, Ogwule Kaduna, and Ogwule Ogbaulu wards in Agatu West.

According to iReporter Online, the local government boss emphasized the urgency of restoring essential public infrastructure to enable internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to their ancestral homes and resume normal lives. During the tour, Ejeh underscored the critical need for roads, schools, healthcare centers, traditional palaces, and marketplaces—facilities he described as fundamental for a safe and dignified return.

Ejeh revealed that while some communities like Iwarri, London, Ikpele 2, and Egwuma have begun to witness the return of residents, others—including Ejima 1 and 2, Okpokpolo, Ogwumogbo, Ajomanchi, Ogbai, and Akele—remain deserted due to insecurity and infrastructural collapse. The chairman expressed gratitude to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia for his consistent support and concern for the welfare of Agatu’s people, while also commending President Bola Tinubu for the Federal Government’s ongoing involvement in the region.

According to iReporter Online, Ejeh appealed for stronger federal efforts to reconstruct broken communities and stabilize the region, warning that without deliberate intervention, the humanitarian crisis could worsen. He specifically requested the deployment of more security formations and targeted infrastructure projects to restore hope to the beleaguered population.

Ejeh praised the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other service chiefs for their sustained efforts in maintaining peace. He pledged that the Agatu Local Government Council would continue to collaborate closely with security agencies to facilitate a permanent and safe resettlement of displaced residents.

According to iReporter Online, the chairman reiterated that meaningful rehabilitation efforts would only be successful with robust federal backing. He emphasized that rebuilding Agatu was not just about restoring structures, but about reviving communities and ensuring peace, stability, and development for future generations.