FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State House of Assembly has called on the State Government to urgently engage relevant Federal authorities over alleged land takeover and intimidation of communities by personnel of the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Army in parts of the state.
This resolution followed a Motion of Urgent Public Importance moved by Hon. Douglas Akya (Makurdi South State Constituency) during plenary on Tuesday 31 March 2026
Presenting the motion, Hon. Akya noted that the primary responsibility of government at all levels is the protection of lives, property, and the welfare of citizens.
He expressed concern over reports that ancestral lands belonging to the people of Ugondo in Makurdi South, Mbaivur in Gwer East, and parts of Makurdi North are allegedly being taken over without adequate consultation or compensation.
He further explained that the affected communities are predominantly agrarian, relying heavily on land for their livelihoods and cultural identity. According to him, the development has resulted in hardship, tension, and growing apprehension among residents.
The House was also informed of alleged cases of intimidation, harassment, and undue pressure on the affected communities by personnel of the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army.
While acknowledging the vital role of the military in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity, the Assembly stressed the need for security agencies to respect the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of host communities.
The House expressed concern that continued denial of access to ancestral farmlands and alleged harassment could escalate into a breakdown of law and order if not promptly addressed.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to:
Urge the Benue State Government to immediately engage the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, and the Federal Ministry of Defence to halt any further land takeover pending proper review.
Call on the Federal Government to ensure strict adherence to due process in land acquisition, including adequate consultation and compensation for affected communities.
Direct the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army to cease all forms of alleged intimidation and harassment of host communities.
Mandate the House Standing Committees on Lands, Surveys and Solid Minerals, and Local Government, Security and Chieftaincy Affairs to investigate the matter and report back within two weeks.
Invite the Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals, alongside the Director of Lands, to appear before the House with all relevant documents, including Certificates of Occupancy, Memoranda of Understanding, and evidence of compensation relating to land allocations to military formations in the state.
Appeal for peaceful dialogue between the military and affected communities to foster mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.
In his remarks, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Alfred Aondoaver Emberga, directed the Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals to urgently wade into the matter to ensure proper demarcation and prevent further escalation.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all citizens while promoting lawful and transparent processes in land administration across the state.
The house also passed four Bills into law.
H.B 25 Benue State Security Trust fund 2026
H.B 29 Local Government Security and Chieftaincy Affairs
H.B 17 A bill for a law to provide framework mainstream climate change action
H.B 19 Benue Information Technology Development Agency
VERONICA AZEMBA
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
