The senate has urged telecommunications companies to install communication masts in parts of Kwande LGA of Benue state after recurring attacks.
The upper legislative chamber said improved communication infrastructure would enable residents to make distress calls during emergencies.
The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Emmanuel Udende, senator representing Benue north-east.
Udende raised concerns over escalating attacks by armed groups across communities in the area.
He said recent “coordinated assaults” had left more than 20 residents dead and displaced many families.
Udende said the attackers targeted villages and local markets, causing widespread destruction and fear among residents.
“The attackers targeted villages and local markets, causing widespread destruction, displacement and fear among residents who are struggling to rebuild their lives,” he said.
The senator recalled that on February 5, assailants invaded a settlement in the area
Udende said the attack resulted in several deaths, injuries and destruction of homes and properties.
“Nearly 50 people were reportedly killed in the February attacks, while several residents are still missing as communities continue searching for their loved ones,” he said.
Udende said another wave of violence occurred in March while residents were still mourning victims of the earlier attacks.
“On March 10, 2026, gunmen again invaded some communities, killing about 11 people and triggering panic among already traumatised residents,” he said.
Udende added that an earlier attack on March 5 in another community also led to deaths and destruction of property worth millions of naira.
He said poor road networks, weak communication infrastructure and the absence of permanent security formations had continued to hamper rapid response to distress calls.
“Improved security presence and communication facilities will significantly enhance response time and protect lives in these vulnerable rural communities,” Udende said.
The senate also urged the federal government to establish a military formation along the Ikurav-ya axis to deter further attacks.
Lawmakers further called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials to affected families
The senate also urged security agencies to intensify patrols and surveillance across rural communities in the area.
Osita Izunaso, senator representing Imo west; Ahmad Lawan, senator representing Yobe north; and Adams Oshiomhole, senator representing Edo north, supported the motion.
