FG Condemns Benue Killings, As Akume Leads Advance Team Ahead Of Tinubu’s Visit To The State

By Frank Oshanugor

As Nigerians from different parts of the country cry out against the recent brutal killings in Yelewata community in Benue State, the Federal Government of Nigeria, has strongly condemned the killings in Benue and other parts of North Central region (Taraba and Plateau) describing such senseless acts of violence as not only an affront to human dignity but also a direct challenge to the peace and stability of our nation.

In a press statement personally signed by him on Monday, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume said “as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, I express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire people of Benue State and the North Central region. The loss of innocent lives in Yelewata community and other affected areas is a tragedy that calls for collective grief and urgent action.

“I commend Mr. President for his decisive response in directing an immediate high-level delegation to Benue State and announcing his personal visit to the region. This demonstrates his commitment to the security and welfare of all Nigerians, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had cancelled his planned visit to Kaduna this Wednesday but would rather travel to Benue State for personal assessment of the situation.

According to Akume, “the President’s decision to visit Benue State on Wednesday is a clear testament to his hands-on leadership and empathy for the plight of affected communities. Such proactive engagement is vital in addressing the root causes of insecurity and fostering sustainable solutions.

“Ahead of the President’s visit, I have been directed to lead a delegation comprising the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and key members of the National Assembly to assess the situation on the ground. This underscores the seriousness with which the President views these attacks.

“As a former Governor of Benue State, I am acutely aware of the devastating impact of these violent attacks on our people. The disruption of livelihoods, displacement of communities, and destruction of property threaten not only individual well-being but also the socio-economic stability of the region.”

The SGF posited that “the Federal Government is fully committed to bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice. I urge our security agencies to intensify their efforts, enhance intelligence-gathering, and work closely with local communities to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed.”

He assured that “President Tinubu’s planned town hall meeting with stakeholders during his visit will provide a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration. It is an opportunity to listen to the concerns of the people and develop actionable strategies to end this cycle of violence.

“The economic implications of insecurity in Benue and the North Central cannot be overstated. The disruption of agricultural activities, trade, and other economic ventures exacerbates poverty and food insecurity, with far-reaching consequences for the entire nation.

“Having served as Senator for Benue in North-Central and Minority Leader of the Senate, I understand the importance of legislative-executive synergy in tackling insecurity. President Tinubu-led government will continue to work closely with the National Assembly and state governments to implement policies that enhance security and protect lives.”

Meanwhile, Akume has commended the resilience of the people of Benue and the North Central in the face of adversity, saying “your courage and determination inspire hope, and I urge you to remain steadfast as the government takes decisive steps to address these challenges.

“The Tinubu administration remains resolute in its determination to restore peace and security across Nigeria. No effort will be spared in deploying the necessary resources and strategies to safeguard our citizens and their properties.

“I am confident that President Tinubu’s visit will mark a significant turning point in our efforts to restore lasting peace in Benue and the North Central.His leadership and personal engagement will undoubtedly reinvigorate our collective resolve to end these senseless killings.”

The SGF has therefore called on all Nigerians to unite in support of the Federal Government’s efforts to ensure peace and stability in every part of our country.

He emphasised that “Security is a shared responsibility, and we must all play our part in fostering harmony and reporting suspicious activities to the authorities.”