A frontline aspirant in the 2027 Benue governorship race, Arc. Anthony Obekpa, has condemned the killing of two young men along the Oju-Awajir road in Gwer East Local Government Area, describing the incident as deeply troubling and a grim reflection of the state’s security challenges.
The victims, identified as Ukoh Jonathan Ogah and Ogoda Gabriel, were reportedly attacked and killed by unknown assailants while returning to Makurdi from Oju on a motorcycle. The attack, which occurred at Ullam community, has sparked widespread outrage across the Igede-speaking areas of Benue South.
Reacting to the development, Arc. Obekpa called on security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those behind the attack and ensure that justice is served swiftly and transparently.
He noted that the repeated targeting of citizens, particularly along rural routes, points to significant gaps in surveillance and operational intelligence that must be addressed without delay.
“The murder of these young men is a harsh reminder that we are yet to fully contain the culture of impunity that has taken root in parts of the state. Restoring public confidence in our security architecture requires urgent and visible action,” he said.
Obekpa urged law enforcement authorities to treat the matter as a priority, stressing that timely investigation and prosecution remain the most effective deterrents against recurring violence.
He further emphasized the need for preventive measures, including community-based intelligence gathering, patrol reinforcement, and strategic deployment in vulnerable corridors.
While commiserating with the bereaved families, Obekpa reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful and secure Benue, stating that the protection of human life must be the first duty of governance at all levels.
The killings have reignited calls for a more comprehensive response to insecurity in Benue, particularly in rural areas where residents remain exposed to recurring threats with limited institutional presence.
