President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has condemned the recent wave of killings in Benue State and has directed immediate security intervention to curb the violence. The president also urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to spearhead peace and reconciliation initiatives among the warring communities.
In a statement released on Saturday, Tinubu described the killings as “unacceptable” and reiterated the federal government’s commitment to ending the cycle of violence and restoring stability to affected areas.
“The senseless loss of lives and displacement of communities must stop. I have instructed security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. Governor Alia has a critical role to play in fostering dialogue and rebuilding trust among all stakeholders,” the president said.
The directive comes amid growing national concern over repeated attacks in rural communities across the state, allegedly involving suspected herdsmen and retaliatory groups. Civil society organisations and traditional rulers have also been calling for urgent and coordinated responses.
Governor Alia, in a brief response, assured residents that efforts are underway to reinforce security and begin community-level peacebuilding dialogues, emphasizing that “the bloodshed must end.”
The presidency has also pledged federal support for relief, rehabilitation, and long-term peace initiatives in Benue.
