Former Senate President David Mark has called on the Federal Government to adopt a new strategy in combating the growing insecurity across Nigeria, suggesting a border control approach similar to that of the United States, Israel, and India.
In a goodwill message delivered through his Special Adviser on Media, Paul Mumeh, during Easter celebrations in Kano on Sunday, Mark decried the persistent violence, particularly in Plateau and Benue states, and urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take decisive action.
Mark proposed that Nigeria consider erecting physical barriers along its borders, a move he believes will help stem the tide of violent crimes, terrorism, and transborder criminal activities.
“We must not allow criminal elements to stream into our country. We must change our strategy,” Mark said. “Maybe we can begin to think of fencing our borders like India, Israel, the U.S., and Mexico.”
He stressed that the groups responsible for recent atrocities should be formally designated as terrorists and treated accordingly. “We must not shy away from the truth. If they are not terrorists, why are they killing people, destroying communities, and displacing residents from their ancestral homes?” he questioned.
Mark also expressed sympathy to the people and governments of Plateau and Benue states following a wave of brutal attacks that left scores dead.
Over 50 people were reportedly killed in Zilkke village, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, after gunmen invaded the community, injuring many—including women and children—and razing more than 40 houses.
Similarly, on Good Friday, suspected herdsmen launched coordinated attacks in Logo and Ukum Local Government Areas of Benue State, killing at least 56 people.
Mark called on the government to intensify efforts to restore peace and security in the affected regions and across the nation.
