A retired senior officer of the Department of State Services (DSS), Orgem Angulum, has urged that President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit of Benue State translate into decisive action against the persistent insecurity plaguing the region.
Angulum welcomed the presidential visit to communities battered by attacks but warned that its success hinges on follow-through measures rather than symbolic gestures.
“The president’s visit is highly welcome, though long overdue. As he comes, he must ensure that this insecurity challenge is addressed once and for all, so that displaced persons can return to their ancestral homes and resume normal life,” he said.
Stating the stakes for the state’s youngest residents, Angulum cautioned that further delay would entrench a generation alienated from peace.
“Any delay means we are raising a generation of children who will never know peace or love. These children, born and raised in IDP camps, may grow up to become a threat to society in a different form as they struggle to survive.”
To secure lasting stability, the former DSS officer recommended the establishment of Forward Operational Bases (FOBs) in vulnerable areas.
He argued that a sustained military presence would not only protect returnees but also serve as a deterrent to future attacks.
“The government must not only relocate people back to their homes but also guarantee their safety through permanent military presence,” Angulum added.
He concluded that President Tinubu’s trip presents an opportunity to restore normalcy to one of Nigeria’s most troubled states, and that failure to act now could deepen Benue’s humanitarian and security crises.
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