Call for State of Emergency in Benue State Amid Escalating Violence

A legal practitioner and public affairs analyst, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has urged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Benue State due to the intensifying violence and security breakdown. Ejiofor, who is also counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), described the situation as a “relentless and gruesome massacre of innocent civilians.”

Ejiofor cited Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the President to declare a state of emergency in situations where there is a breakdown of public order or imminent danger to life and property. He believes that this constitutional mandate should be invoked to protect lives and preserve national security.

The call for a state of emergency comes after the recent exoneration of Fulani herdsmen by the executive governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia. Ejiofor argues that this development has further exacerbated the security situation, making it imperative for the federal government to intervene.

The ongoing violence in Benue State has resulted in significant loss of life and property, with many innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. Ejiofor’s call for a state of emergency highlights the need for urgent action to address the security breakdown and protect the lives of citizens.

By declaring a state of emergency, the government can deploy additional resources and personnel to the affected areas, providing much-needed support to restore peace and stability.