As clarity begins to emerge over the number of lives lost in the latest carnage that erased scores of lives in Benue State, President Bola Tinubu has instructed security chiefs to follow through on his previous directive aimed at establishing long-term peace and security in Benue State. This renewed order comes in response to recent reprisal attacks that have resulted in numerous deaths.
Figures range between 45 and 100 lives though other sources are saying there are many unaccounted for and others quietly eliminated in counter offensives by angry local people in the violent face-off between Fulani herdsmen and farmers. An unverified figure of over 200 is being thrown around amid other scores of injured people.
There have also been talks of an interplay of political forces within Benue State orchestrating and, at other times, fanning the violence, in addition to the onslaught of the herdsmen. Fingers are equally being pointed in the direction of partial security entities in Abuja.
Nevertheless, in line with the president’s directive, intelligence officials, the police, and military personnel have been deployed to the state to lead security operations and restore order.
Additionally, President Tinubu has tasked the Governor of Benue State with initiating reconciliation efforts and facilitating dialogue between the conflicting parties, with the goal of ending the persistent violence and fostering peaceful coexistence among farmers, herders, and local communities.
Condemning the ongoing violence as inhumane and detrimental to progress, President Tinubu urged political and community leaders in conflict zones to refrain from making provocative statements that could escalate tensions. He also called on them to prevent individuals from provoking further violence or inciting retaliation.
“The recent wave of killings in Benue State is deeply distressing. We cannot allow this senseless violence to continue. Enough is enough. I have directed the security agencies to take strong action against those responsible for these heinous acts and ensure they are brought to justice,” said President Tinubu.
He further emphasised, “Political and community leaders in Benue must show responsibility by avoiding inflammatory rhetoric that can exacerbate the situation. This is the moment for Governor Alia to step forward as a statesman and spearhead the dialogue and reconciliation process that will restore peace. Our people deserve peace, and it is achievable when leaders work together, address differences fairly, and strive for justice and unity.”
