Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has taken a firm stance against the ongoing violence in Benue, directing security chiefs to implement measures that will bring lasting peace and security to the region. This move comes after a recent wave of reprisal attacks resulted in the loss of many lives, prompting President Tinubu to renew his earlier directive. According to Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, the latest round of attacks has led to a significant escalation of the conflict.
In a devastating turn of events, Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed on Sunday that 59 people were killed in Yelewata, a border town that was attacked by unidentified gunmen on Saturday. The death toll, which includes military and civil defense personnel who fought to defend the town, was determined through physical head counts conducted by security agencies in collaboration with the families of the victims. In response to the President’s directive, intelligence chiefs, police, and military personnel have arrived in the state to oversee security operations and restore order.
President Tinubu has also urged Governor Alia to convene reconciliation meetings and dialogue among the warring parties to promote peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and communities. The President condemned the killings and bloodshed, describing them as inhuman and anti-progress. He called on political and community leaders in conflict areas to refrain from making inflammatory statements that could further fuel tensions and instead work towards finding a peaceful resolution.
The President emphasized the need for decisive action, stating, “The latest news of wanton killings in Benue is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough.” He directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute perpetrators of these violent acts, regardless of their affiliation. President Tinubu also stressed the importance of responsible leadership, urging political and community leaders in Benue to avoid making statements that could exacerbate tensions and instead promote dialogue and reconciliation.
In a message of hope and unity, President Tinubu said, “Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across the divides work together in harmony and differences are identified and addressed with fairness, openness, and justice.” As the situation in Benue continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see how the Nigerian government’s efforts to restore peace and security in the region play out. With the President’s directive and the arrival of security personnel, there is a glimmer of hope that the violence may finally subside, and the people of Benue can begin to rebuild and heal.
