A member of the Benue State House of Assembly has warned that ongoing insecurity in Agatu Local Government Area could significantly disrupt the conduct of the 2027 general elections if the situation is not urgently addressed.
Speaking on the floor of the Assembly, the lawmaker representing Agatu Constituency described the area as increasingly volatile following a resurgence of attacks by suspected armed herders, which have led to deaths and widespread displacement of residents.
The legislator said the continued violence has forced many communities to flee their homes, leaving large numbers of residents in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. He noted that the destruction of infrastructure and prevailing insecurity have made normal administrative and economic activities difficult to sustain.
According to him, farming—an essential economic activity in the area—has been severely affected, raising concerns about food security in the region.
The lawmaker cautioned that the current security situation could undermine the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct credible elections in the area. He warned that without improved security, voter participation could be drastically reduced or the process rendered unworkable.
He stressed that peaceful conditions are essential for free and fair elections, urging authorities to take early action to prevent a potential crisis.
In response, the Assembly has resolved to invite security chiefs, including the state Commissioner of Police, to provide updates on measures being taken to restore stability. The lawmaker also called for increased deployment of security personnel and the establishment of a stronger security presence along border areas prone to attacks.
Observers note that the situation in Agatu reflects wider security challenges in parts of Nigeria, where recurring violence continues to affect livelihoods and governance. As preparations gradually build toward the 2027 elections, stakeholders say addressing insecurity will be critical to safeguarding democratic processes in vulnerable communities.