Anebi
President of Ochetoha K’Idoma and respected historian, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, has traced the unrelenting wave of violence in Benue State to historical, political and economic factors spanning nearly two centuries.
Speaking during an interview with Global TV, Ochefu stated that the roots of the crisis go far beyond the surface-level farmer-herder clashes often reported.
According to him, the seeds of the unrest were sown over 200 years ago and have been watered by decades of political failure, economic exploitation, and a chronic lack of trust among Nigeria’s ruling elites.
“It’s important we contextualize the crisis from a deep historical standpoint… The roots of what we are seeing now were planted nearly two hundred years ago.
“Between the politicians and those who have converted this insurgency into a big business, we find a collusion. The government of Benue State really needs to dig deep and have a thorough understanding of the various dimensions.”
Ochefu warned that political elites and foreign mercenaries have turned the violence into a profitable venture, pointing to illegal mining activities in Kwande, Ukum, and Apa/Agatu where foreign fighters are recruited to secure mineral-rich zones.
“What is going on in Kwande is all about precious minerals being mined illegally… Same thing in Niger and Zamfara States. Mercenaries have been invited to protect these illegal sites, and violence is created so that the areas become ungoverned.”
He argued that until the nation confronts the nexus between political ambition, mercenary profiteering, and criminal enterprise, peace will remain elusive.
Ochefu also drew attention to the logistical challenges facing security agencies, particularly in rural parts of Benue, where poor roads and lack of infrastructure delay emergency response by hours.
“If response doesn’t come quickly, it becomes a problem. The terrain and infrastructure are a major challenge for security agents. In some places, even motorcycles take two to three hours to arrive.”
The historian lamented that locals often feel abandoned and have now resorted to self-defense, noting that while the security forces are doing their best with limited resources, it is often too little, too late.
Benue crisis rooted in 200 years of history – Yakubu Ochefu
