David Mark Warns Benue Residents May Resort to Self-Defence if Attacks Continue Unchecked
Former Senate President David Mark has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian government, stating that if the relentless violence and killings in Benue State continue without serious intervention, the people may be forced to defend themselves.
In a powerful statement released on Monday, June 16, 2025, by his Special Adviser, Paul Mumeh, David Mark expressed his deep concern over the worsening security crisis in Benue. He said the federal government's failure to act decisively is pushing the state to the brink and endangering the lives and future of its citizens.
“This Is a Gross Disservice to the People” – David Mark
Mark did not hold back in his criticism of the authorities. According to him, the ongoing violence in Benue reflects a broader failure of governance, particularly the inability of the federal government to fulfill its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.
“The primary responsibility of any government is the welfare and security of its citizens. Any deviation from this mandate constitutes a gross disservice to the people. This is the unfortunate reality the Benue people are confronted with,” he said.
Mark’s statement comes in the wake of renewed attacks on communities in Benue State, where innocent civilians, including women and children, have been killed in cold blood. Several villages have been razed, properties destroyed, and thousands displaced.
The former Senate President, who hails from Otukpo in Benue State, said the suffering of the people has reached an unbearable level. He noted that despite repeated calls for help, both the federal and state governments have failed to provide adequate protection or justice for the victims.
The Federal Government Must Act Now
Mark called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to act swiftly and decisively to end the bloodshed in Benue. He warned that allowing the situation to fester would not only escalate the crisis but could also lead to a breakdown of law and order.
“The situation is becoming dire. People are being pushed to the wall. If the authorities continue to look the other way, the people may have no option but to resort to self-defence. This is not what we want, but the continued silence and inaction may leave the people with no choice,” Mark warned.
He emphasized that proactive security measures, not empty promises, are what the people need now.
Governor Hyacinth Alia Urged to Do More
David Mark also addressed Governor Hyacinth Alia, urging him to intensify efforts at the state level to protect lives and property. While acknowledging the limitations of state governors in commanding federal security forces, Mark insisted that the governor must be more visible, more vocal, and more aggressive in pushing for federal support.
“Governor Hyacinth Alia must leave no stone unturned in defending his people. The protection of lives and property must take top priority. We cannot afford to watch our communities destroyed while the government remains indifferent,” he said.
“Unite, Mobilise and Speak with One Voice”
Mark made a passionate appeal to traditional rulers, community leaders, and ordinary citizens to rise above fear and unite in the face of adversity. He called for solidarity among the people to resist the attacks and ensure the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
“This is a trying moment for our people. We must unite, mobilise, and speak with one voice against the invaders. We must refuse to bow to fear,” he declared.
He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, even as he lamented their lack of effective action in many cases. According to him, only a united front can bring hope and resilience to communities facing such devastating violence.
“Remain Law-Abiding, Even in the Face of Injustice”
Despite the frustration and despair in Benue, David Mark encouraged citizens to remain law-abiding and resilient. He acknowledged that the government’s inaction is shaking public confidence, but warned that resorting to lawlessness would only worsen the situation.
“We must not allow ourselves to be consumed by fear or anger. Even in the face of injustice, we must stay within the bounds of the law. The world is watching, and history will remember how we handled this moment,” he said.
Mark’s message reflects the growing tension in Benue, where many locals have been openly discussing the possibility of forming community vigilantes or self-defence groups. Some communities have already begun to take matters into their own hands due to the absence of security forces.
Pope Francis Joins the World in Mourning Victims of Benue Attacks
The crisis in Benue has not gone unnoticed by the international community. On Sunday, June 15, Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims of the killings and expressed deep concern about the worsening state of insecurity in Nigeria.
“I pray that security, justice and peace will prevail in Nigeria, a beloved country so affected by various forms of violence. I pray in a special way for the rural communities in Benue State who have been unceasingly the victims of violence,” said the Pontiff.
His remarks came during his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer at the Vatican, drawing global attention to the Benue killings. The Pope’s words were a reminder of the international spotlight now on Nigeria’s failure to stem violence in rural communities.
Why the Benue Attacks Must Not Be Ignored
The Benue Valley, often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has become a warzone. Over the past several years, it has witnessed repeated attacks believed to be carried out by armed herdsmen and bandits, targeting farming communities.
This violence has caused:
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Mass displacement of thousands of families
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Collapse of agricultural activities
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Loss of hundreds of lives
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Destruction of schools, churches, and health centers
The impact goes far beyond Benue. It threatens Nigeria’s food security, economic stability, and national unity. When a state as agriculturally vital as Benue is under siege, the rest of the country cannot afford to remain silent.
Conclusion: A Call to Action Before It’s Too Late
David Mark’s warning is not just a political statement—it is a cry for help from a state on the brink. If urgent steps are not taken to protect Benue residents, the consequences could be catastrophic. The federal government must rise to its constitutional responsibility to safeguard every Nigerian, regardless of region, ethnicity, or religion.
The people of Benue have shown remarkable courage and patience in the face of terror. But no people can endure endless violence without some form of response. Whether through stronger military action, community-based security, or international pressure, something must give—and fast.
For now, the world watches, as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful and productive states fights for its survival.
