By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Tinubu has renewed his directive to security chiefs to restore peace and stability in Benue State following the latest deadly attacks in Yelwata that left dozens dead.
In a statement issued on Sunday, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the President gave the order in response to fresh reprisal killings in the state, which he described as “inhuman and anti-progress.”
Governor Hyacinth Alia had earlier confirmed that 59 people were killed in the Yelwata community, a border town between Benue and Nasarawa states, during an attack by suspected herdsmen. Alia said the casualty figure was determined through headcounts conducted by security agencies in coordination with affected families.
Reacting to the incident, Tinubu directed intelligence agencies, the military, and the police to intensify security operations across the state. Onanuga confirmed that the security teams have already been deployed to coordinate operations aimed at restoring law and order.
“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is enough,” President Tinubu was quoted as saying.
He further charged Governor Alia to initiate immediate dialogue and reconciliation among the warring factions — particularly farmers and herders — to foster peaceful coexistence.
“This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and lead the process of reconciliation that will bring lasting peace to Benue. Our people must live in peace, and that is possible when leaders work together with fairness, openness, and justice,” Tinubu stated.
The President also warned political and community leaders to refrain from making incendiary remarks capable of escalating tensions, urging them instead to play constructive roles in resolving the conflict.
He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of violence are arrested and prosecuted, regardless of their affiliation or role in the conflict.
