In the wake of the devastating massacre in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, which claimed at least 100 lives, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has disclosed the contents of a private meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The attack, which occurred between Friday night and Saturday morning, has drawn national and international condemnation. Amnesty International reported that many victims were burned alive in their homes, with graphic footage circulating on social media showing charred bodies and destroyed houses.
Governor Alia revealed that during the meeting, President Tinubu expressed deep concern over the killings and emphasized the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace in the state. The president directed the Nigerian military to take immediate action to restore order and apprehend those responsible for the violence. Additionally, President Tinubu urged Governor Alia to initiate peace talks between farmers and herders to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict. The governor affirmed his commitment to these directives and assured the president of his administration’s readiness to collaborate with federal authorities to ensure lasting peace in Benue State.
The Benue State government has been proactive in addressing security concerns. Governor Alia signed an Executive Order banning political and social gatherings beyond 10 p.m. and prohibited farming on undeveloped plots in urban areas to curb violent crimes such as kidnapping and banditry. The establishment of the Department of Public Order within the Ministry of Justice has been instrumental in implementing these measures.
Furthermore, the federal government has previously deployed additional security personnel to Benue State to combat the herders/farmers crisis. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, affirmed that President Tinubu has provided sufficient security resources to the state and urged Governor Alia to utilize these assets effectively to end the killings.
The recent massacre has intensified calls for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of the herders/farmers conflict, including the establishment of grazing reserves and the enforcement of laws prohibiting open grazing. Experts suggest that insecurity has adversely affected agricultural output in Benue State, with a decrease in crop and livestock production during periods of insecurity.
As the situation develops, the collaboration between federal and state authorities, security agencies, and community leaders will be crucial in restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in Benue State.
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