From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Benue Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship candidate Chief Michael Aondoakaa has appealed to the Federal Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into Sunday’s attack on Otukpo Nobi, where over 16 persons were reportedly killed as well as the recent killing of a Miyetti Allah leader, Ardo Risku Mohammed, insisting that Nigerians deserve to know the truth about the circumstances surrounding both incidence.
Aondoakaa who said this on Monday in Otukpo during a condolence visit to the people of Otukpo community, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing the attack as a collective pain that should concern every Benue citizen.
The PDP governorship candidate said no society should watch its people being killed without seeking justice and accountability.
He said, “we cannot shy away from confronting our challenges. I’m here to see you because I share your pains. This attack is an attack on all of us. We can’t abandon our people to be slaughtered like animals in our own land.”
Speaking on behalf of the community, Elder James Okoh thanked the PDP candidate for identifying with the people in their moment of grief.
He said the community was deeply consoled by Aondoakaa’s visit and concern, noting that his presence demonstrated genuine empathy for the victims and their families.
The former Minister of Justice who also paid homage to the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Agaba’Idu, Dr. John Elaigwu Odogbo, at his palace in Otukpo consoled him over the tragic incident.
“Your Royal Majesty, I’m here today not as a PDP candidate but as a son and in-law of Zone C who is saddened by the unfortunate incident of the attack on our people a few days ago,” he said.
He condemned the unfortunate attack, praying that God would bring consolation to families of the victims.
Responding, the Och’Idoma expressed appreciation for the visit, saying Chief Aondoakaa’s decision to personally visit the affected communities and the palace reflected his concern for the people.
“I’m consoled by your visit. That you heard about this incident and left everything to be physically here shows how much this means to you,” the monarch said.
The royal father urged authorities to take proactive measures whenever intelligence reports are received.
“I want my people to be protected. No matter how many condolence statements and letters I get, the lives of my slain people cannot be brought back,” he said.
Chief Aondoakaa further visited His Royal Highness, Chief (Dr.) John Onuminya Eyimonye, the Och’Otukpo, where he equally commiserated with the traditional ruler and the people of Otukpo over the deadly attack.
