In response to the massacre of over 200 persons in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday directed Governor Hyacinth Alia to immediately constitute an inclusive peace committee. The directive was issued during the President’s visit to Makurdi, where he met with victims’ families, traditional rulers, and political stakeholders following the deadly attacks reportedly carried out by suspected armed herders.
At a town hall meeting held at the Benue Government House, Tinubu emphasized the need for a collaborative, all-inclusive approach to restoring peace. “Let’s establish the committee of leaders. We cannot do without one another,” the President said, adding that he would personally participate in the committee’s activities to ensure meaningful outcomes.
The peace committee, according to Tinubu, must include former governors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and even non-indigenes residing in the state. He described the crisis in Benue as a national tragedy that calls for a united response. “Whatever we need to do, this leadership committee will meet in Abuja to fashion out the nucleus of lasting peace, and I am ready to invest in that peace,” he assured.
Synergy with Nasarawa State Key to Lasting Peace, Says Tinubu
President Tinubu called for collaboration between Benue and neighboring Nasarawa State, stressing that regional cooperation is vital to curbing the recurring bloodshed. Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, who was present at the town hall, was urged to work closely with Governor Alia as part of the new peace effort.
“The governor of Nasarawa is here, and the governor of Benue is here. Let’s create that synergy for peace, development, and prosperity,” Tinubu said. “We’re here to govern, not to bury. We’re here to raise families, not to lose some.”
Tinubu appealed to the people of Benue to rally around their governor in this critical time. He acknowledged the burden of leadership, advising Alia to embrace criticism and reach out to all segments of society. “Be ready for insults. That is the yoke of leadership. Get your lantern and seek out those leaders who will help you find solutions,” the President added.
Security Agencies Under Fire Over Lack of Arrests
Expressing deep concern over the lack of arrests following the Yelewata massacre, President Tinubu delivered a strong message to Nigeria’s security agencies. He demanded immediate and visible action from the police, military, and intelligence units to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be arrest of those criminals,” Tinubu said, visibly displeased. He thanked the military leadership for their deployment but insisted that more must be done.
He singled out the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, urging them to remain vigilant and proactive. “Thank you for your response, but we need to keep our ears to the ground. Let’s get those criminals and get them out,” he said.
Calls for Improved Intelligence, Protection of Lives
Turning to Nigeria’s intelligence community, President Tinubu charged the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to upgrade their surveillance and early warning systems. He insisted that the mass killings must never happen again.
“DG NIA and DG DSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence that this will not occur again,” the President stated. He noted that meaningful development hinges on peace and the security of citizens, adding that the country cannot afford to be trapped in a cycle of violence.
“We’ve been fastening our belts to give development to our country. It’s only when you make the people of your state the priority that you can plan good for them and execute good programmes,” he emphasized, drawing a clear link between national progress and the need for sustainable peace in Benue and beyond.
Tinubu Promises Federal Support, Demands Land for Ranching
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to bringing peace and development to Benue, Tinubu said the federal government would provide the necessary support to help the state heal and rebuild. He also made a subtle demand to Governor Alia for land to be allocated for ranching as a long-term solution to the recurring farmer-herder crisis.
“The committee must be inclusive. I want the Tor Tiv, the Och’Idoma, and others to be part of this peace process. Let us talk to ourselves like a family. I am ready to invest in bringing peace to Benue,” Tinubu declared.
The President concluded with a passionate appeal to Benue’s traditional rulers, urging them to work closely with the government to end the bloodshed and secure a peaceful future for their people. “This is a very critical time. The governor needs your help. Let’s all be part of the solution,” he said.
As the state mourns yet another tragic loss of life, Tinubu’s visit and his clear directives set a tone of urgency and hope. Now, the eyes of the nation will be on Benue as it begins the difficult journey towards healing, justice, and reconciliation.
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