President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to meet with Benue State stakeholders today, following a series of violent attacks that left over 200 people dead in Yelewata, Guma LGA. The assailants, armed with advanced weaponry, targeted civilians and set homes ablaze, prompting national and international condemnation.
The Benue State House of Assembly, in a rare show of candor, blamed itself alongside the governor and deputy for failing to protect the populace. The PDP and CUPP have called for a state of emergency, while other parties demand urgent security reforms and accuse the President of neglecting his duty to safeguard lives.
The United Nations has called for a comprehensive investigation, and Governor Alia, through his information commissioner, defended his administration’s efforts to support security agencies.
In response, top security officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff and the Inspector-General of Police, visited the affected areas to oversee operations. The President’s adviser, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed Tinubu’s intention to engage with all relevant groups, including traditional and youth leaders, to chart a path toward peace.
Senator George Akume led preliminary stakeholder consultations, with retired generals and politicians expressing renewed determination to end the bloodshed. Lawmakers in Benue, acknowledging their shortcomings, called for strict enforcement of anti-open grazing laws and three days of mourning for victims.
As the state capital prepares for the presidential visit, roads are being repaired and security heightened. Political leaders remain divided on the best course of action, with some advocating for emergency rule and others preferring increased security presence.
Military commanders have been instructed to deepen collaboration with local communities, and the UN has reiterated its demand for accountability and justice for the victims.
