Benue Massacre: Tinubu Orders Arrest of All Perpetrators, Warns Against Provocation
President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to arrest all those responsible for the recent wave of killings in Benue State, following deadly attacks that have left nearly 200 people dead.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president condemned the attacks as “inhuman and anti-progress,” urging political and community leaders to avoid inflammatory statements that could worsen tensions.
“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough,” Tinubu declared.
On June 14, over 100 people were reportedly killed in coordinated attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities, Guma LGA. By Sunday, the death toll had reportedly risen to 200. The violence came just two days after the killing of 25 people in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa communities in Makurdi LGA.
In response, intelligence chiefs, police, and military officials have arrived in the state to lead operations aimed at restoring peace and security.
“I have directed the security agencies to act decisively and arrest perpetrators of these evil acts on all sides of the conflict and prosecute them,” Tinubu stated.
He also called on local leaders to take responsibility in de-escalating the conflict. “Political and community leaders in Benue State must act responsibly and avoid inflammatory utterances that could further increase tensions and killings,” he warned.
“This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue.”
