Nigeria’s House of Representatives has called on the federal government to urgently establish a military base in Yelwata, a border community in Benue State, following a deadly attack that left over 200 people dead.
The attack, which occurred on June 14 in Guma Local Government Area, was carried out by suspected armed assailants. Thousands of residents have since been displaced, with many losing their homes and sources of livelihood.
The call for a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Nigerian Army came during Wednesday’s plenary session after a motion was raised by Dickson Tarkighir, who represents the Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency. He described the killings as part of a “devastating and recurrent pattern of violent attacks” in the region.
“This attack has worsened an already serious humanitarian crisis. The community is in deep pain, and the response so far has been slow and inadequate,” Tarkighir told lawmakers.
In response, the House mandated its Committees on Interior and Security to visit Yelwata and surrounding communities to assess the damage and recommend urgent action. It also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide immediate relief materials and medical aid to those displaced.
To seek accountability, the Committee on Human Rights has been directed to investigate the circumstances behind the June 14 massacre and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.
Benue State has long suffered from violent clashes, often between farming communities and armed groups. Lawmakers warn that without prompt action, further bloodshed may occur.