Sen Moro appeals to US Embassy for support amid renewed attacks on Benue South communities

By Benedicta Aboh

In a bid to address the escalating violence in Benue South, the lawmaker representing the district and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro has visted the American Embassy in Abuja to discuss strategies to end the ongoing attacks and support displaced residents.

According to a statement by Mr. Emmanuel John, Media Adviser to the Senate Minority Leader, Moro has been losing sleep over the renewed assaults on Otukpo and Apa/Agatu communities, which have left numerous people dead and destroyed properties worth millions of naira.

Speaking with the Political Front Desk Officer of the U.S. Embassy, Casandra Carraway, the senator lamented the recurring nature of the violence.

“The killings of my constituents have become a recurrent decimal, yet there appears to be no deliberate effort from any level of government to stop it,” Moro said.

He highlighted the dire living conditions of his people, many of whom have fled their ancestral homes and farms to overcrowded emergency camps.

“They are living in pitiable and unhealthy conditions. Immediate actions are needed to prevent a looming food crisis and potential disease outbreak,” he added.

Moro called for collaborative efforts between the Nigerian and American governments to halt the attacks and restore peace in Zone C of Benue State. “We urgently need support from the American Embassy and the U.S. government to address these security challenges and provide relief for displaced persons,” he stressed.

Responding, Ms. Carraway condemned the attacks, describing them as acts of terrorism. “The United States supports any willing government in combating terrorism. We take the concerns raised by Senator Moro seriously and will ensure they are addressed,” she said.

She extended her condolences to the people of Zone C and expressed optimism that constructive solutions would be found. “We sympathize with the victims and the senator, and we are confident that through cooperation, the violence can be curtailed,” Carraway added.

The visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement, reflecting the urgency of the humanitarian and security situation in Benue South.

Senator Moro concluded by reiterating his commitment to advocating for his people. “We will not relent until peace and security are restored to our communities. The lives and livelihoods of our people are non-negotiable,” he affirmed.

Observers note that Moro’s intervention may catalyze international support to mitigate the crisis and ensure displaced persons return home safely.

The renewed attacks have reignited calls from local leaders and civil society groups for stronger government action to protect communities and prevent further loss of lives and property.