The senator representing Benue North-East Senatorial District, Emmanuel Memga Udende, has alleged that political thugs attacked his convoy and disrupted a church service he attended last Sunday in Benue State.
According to a statement released through his media aide, Jerry Orgem Iorngaem, the incident occurred at the House of Solution Church of All Nations (HOSCOAN) located in Kpe Aya, Tsua Community in Mbagbera, within Vandeikya Local Government Area.
Udende said that shortly before the church service ended, suspected thugs stormed the area, causing panic among worshippers. He alleged that the attackers vandalized property within the church premises, destroying canopies and plastic chairs set up for the gathering.
The senator further claimed that the individuals arrived at the church compound in about five buses while chanting political songs, suggesting that the disruption may have been politically motivated.
Local Government Chairman Responds
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Vandeikya Local Government Area, Dennis Terkura Guda, issued a statement accusing Senator Udende of contributing to the security breach reported in Vandeikya Township during the church service.
Guda criticized the lawmaker for allegedly failing to formally notify the local government authority where he serves as the chief security officer or obtain clearance from relevant security agencies before visiting the area.
According to the chairman, established protocols require high-profile political figures to inform local authorities and security agencies ahead of such visits in order to ensure proper coordination and maintain public safety.
“A public figure of Senator Udende’s status is expected to formally notify the local government authorities, security agencies, and even party leadership before undertaking such a visit, particularly when we belong to the same political party,” Guda stated.
He added that the circumstances surrounding the senator’s visit had raised questions about the motive behind the trip.
The incident has since sparked political tension in parts of Benue State, with calls from residents for authorities to investigate the disturbance and ensure that such disruptions do not occur during religious gatherings.
