He raised concerns about the ongoing wave of violence in states like Plateau and Benue, where frequent attacks have resulted in significant loss of life and destruction of property. Mark described the surge in armed assaults, kidnappings, and invasions by militant herdsmen as a national emergency requiring immediate and robust action. He recommended that the government officially designate the violent groups behind these attacks as terrorists, emphasizing that their activities meet the definition based on their scale and brutality. “We must not allow criminal elements to stream into our country,” he stated.
Mark highlighted the potential benefits of constructing border fortifications, similar to those in place in Israel, India, and between the U.S. and Mexico, as a method to stem the tide of cross-border terrorism and organized crime. He also expressed sympathy for the victims of recent attacks, particularly those in Zilkke village, Plateau State, where gunmen reportedly killed more than 50 people and destroyed dozens of homes.
In another incident on Good Friday, over 56 residents were reportedly slain in separate attacks on communities in the Logo and Ukum local government areas of Benue State, further intensifying national concerns over rural insecurity.
