By Victor Itodo Abuh
THE IGEDE Youth Council (IYC) has issued an urgent call for security intervention following persistent cases of robbery and violent attacks along the Oju–Awajir Road, particularly within the Ulam community in Benue State.
In a press statement dated February 11, 2026 and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Jairus Awo, the council expressed deep concern over what it described as “persistent and worrisome cases of robbery and violent attacks against Igede people” along the strategic road.
According to the statement, the situation has worsened in recent days, with reports of repeated violent incidents that have left residents and commuters in fear.
“This development is deeply troubling, as the same community was recently the scene of a tragic incident where two vibrant Igede youths were brutally killed under unexplained circumstances,” the IYC stated.
The council further disclosed that another violent episode occurred just a day before the statement was issued, lasting for more than three hours and forcing commuters and residents to flee for safety.
Describing the Oju–Awajir Road as having “regrettably become a war zone,” the IYC warned that rising tensions between communities in Oju and Konshisha Local Government Areas could further escalate if urgent steps are not taken.
To prevent further deterioration of the security situation, the youth body called on the Benue State Government to immediately deploy adequate security personnel to the area.
Among its demands, the council urged authorities to “ensure the safe passage of Igede people and all commuters along this route,” as well as to “arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of these heinous acts.”
The IYC also called for long-term peace-building measures, stressing the need to “establish lasting peace and confidence among the communities to forestall further violence.”
Reaffirming the government’s responsibility to protect lives and property, the council said, “The protection of lives and property is the foremost responsibility of government,” adding that urgent action is required to restore peace, security and free movement along the road.
While reiterating its commitment to peace and development, the council warned that it could not “stand idle while our people are subjected to repeated attack.”
The statement concluded with a call for unity and solidarity among the people, urging all stakeholders to work together to restore calm in the affected communities.
