Insecurity in Benue: Naka Residents Left Helpless as Violence Escalates Without Government Response

By ConfirmNews

Residents of Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State, are reeling in fear and frustration following a fresh wave of violence that erupted between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on 01/06/2025. 

Eyewitnesses report that during the attack, several people were reportedly killed, major roads were blocked, and there was no immediate security response from the state government or federal forces.

Locals are accusing the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia of failing to fulfill its primary constitutional duty — the protection of lives and property.

 The absence of timely intervention during the Naka attack has intensified public outcry, with many now questioning the government’s capacity and willingness to tackle rising insecurity in the region.

"It’s obvious that we are on our own. From 5 to 9 p.m., Naka was under siege and not a single security unit came to our rescue. People were trapped. 

Even those with vehicles could not escape to Makurdi because the roads were completely blocked," said a resident who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons.

The growing fear has sparked calls for immediate relocation from Naka to safer areas, with Makurdi emerging as the default destination. However, this solution brings its own challenges.

“Makurdi is no longer affordable for civil servants or peasant farmers,” a displaced teacher lamented.

 “House rents are out of reach, and agents exploit the desperation of displaced people. It’s as if we’re being attacked both by bandits and by the housing crisis.”

Another resident bitterly remarked, “The house agents in Makurdi are like the second version of the Fulani herdsmen — exploiting us when we’re already vulnerable.”

This disturbing development in Naka adds to the broader pattern of insecurity that has plagued parts of Benue State in recent months, particularly in rural and agrarian communities. 

Citizens and civil society groups are now calling for immediate action, including enhanced military presence, improved coordination between local vigilantes and security agencies, and a humanitarian response to assist the displaced.

As the crisis deepens, one painful question lingers in the hearts of many Benue residents: “If our governor cannot protect us, who will?”