The Northern Senators Forum has condemned the recent killings in Benue and Kaduna states and endorsed the Federal Government's plan to expand the Nigerian Army and recruit additional personnel.
ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has condemned the recent attacks in Benue and Kaduna states that claimed dozens of lives and displaced hundreds of residents, describing the incidents as tragic and unacceptable.
The forum also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu's ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture, including the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.
In a statement issued on Friday, the senators decried the killing of at least 13 people in Efeyi community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, as well as the attack on Naridon village in Kaduna State, where about 30 residents, including women and children, were reportedly killed.
The lawmakers described the attacks as a threat to national peace and called for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
According to the forum, the continued loss of lives and displacement of innocent citizens require a coordinated response from security agencies and all levels of government.
The senators welcomed President Tinubu's approval for the expansion of the Nigerian Army and the establishment of additional military formations across the country.
They noted that increasing the number of divisions and recruiting more personnel would strengthen security operations against banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and communal violence.
The forum also called for improved intelligence gathering, stronger collaboration among security agencies and greater community participation in security efforts.
The attacks in Benue and Kaduna are among the latest incidents in a series of violent attacks that have affected communities across northern Nigeria.
In Benue State, residents of Efeyi community in Otukpo Local Government Area were attacked earlier this week, leaving many dead and several others injured.
Similarly, communities in Kaduna State have continued to grapple with deadly attacks, kidnappings and displacement.
Security experts have warned that addressing the crisis requires both military action and long-term solutions aimed at tackling the root causes of insecurity.
The condemnation by the Northern Senators Forum highlights growing concerns among political leaders over the security situation in northern Nigeria.
Observers say effective implementation of security reforms and stronger cooperation between federal and state authorities will be critical to restoring peace in affected communities.
The Federal Government is expected to continue implementing its security expansion plans while security agencies intensify operations in vulnerable areas.
Residents and community leaders have also renewed calls for justice for victims and stronger protection measures.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates.
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