Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Worldwide, NiDO-WW, said there is the need to prioritise the safety of lives and property of citizens in Benue and across the country.
Coordinating Chairman of NiDO-WW, Mr Chibuzo Ubochi, in a statement yesterday in Abuja, urged the federal government to stop the reoccurring killings in Benue.
Ubochi conveyed the organisation’s condolences to the government and people of Benue over the recent security situation in the state.
According to him, NIDO-WW is in sorrow over the recent violence in Benue, where armed attackers claimed numerous lives and forced hundreds of communities to flee.
“This wave of bloodshed represents a grave setback for national stability and a breach of our collective humanity; NIDO-WW stands in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Benue.
“Though we reside abroad, we remain proud sons and daughters of these communities; we share your pain; we share your sorrow and we pledge that your suffering will not be forgotten.
“To the people of Benue, we say you are not alone; Nigerians in Diaspora share your grief and remain committed to your recovery.
“To the perpetrators, we say to kill one’s brother or sister is barbaric; there is no justification for taking human life; you are murderers and the law will catch up with you,” Ubochi said.
The coordinating chairman appealed to the Federal Government to adopt measures towards avoiding such reoccurrence.
He said Nigerians abroad brought extensive expertise in security and emergency management.
“We offer our skills and experience to support your efforts; we stand ready to collaborate with government intelligence agencies, police and military, to stem this tide of bloodshed.
“While awaiting official collaboration, NIDO-WW will proceed in parallel to conceptualise the Nigerians in Diaspora Security Network, NIDSN.
“Our vision for NIDSN is a diaspora-driven security outfit designed to support national efforts by providing expertise in modern security technologies and intelligence best practice.
“Also to coordinate diaspora-led initiatives that enhance community resilience in affected areas and advocate transparent use of resources and measurable impact in combating communal violence.”
He reiterated NIDSN would operate in full compliance with Nigerian law and in close partnership with recognised security agencies, adding its purpose would be to complement, not replace vital work of those on the front lines.
“NiDO-WW mourns those murdered; we demand an immediate end to these atrocities; we call on all stakeholders to come together in defense of every Nigerian life and to work without delay toward lasting peace,” he said.
NiDO-WW seeks to unite Nigerians living abroad across Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania, promote homeland development, advocate diaspora interests and harness global expertise for the advancement of Nigeria.
