Makurdi, Benue State | June 18, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of human life above all else, declaring that the value of a single human life far outweighs that of livestock.
Speaking during his visit to Benue State where he met with victims of recent violent attacks, the President issued a strong message against the continued spate of killings, particularly those linked to herder-farmer conflicts.
“The value of human life is greater than that of a cow. We are here to govern, not to bury,” President Tinubu said, addressing a gathering of state officials, security operatives, and community leaders. His remarks drew strong approval from citizens and civil society groups demanding firmer government action on security.
The President’s visit came amid national outrage over recurring attacks on rural communities in the Middle Belt region. During his tour of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, he expressed sympathy to injured victims and families of the deceased, assuring them of renewed federal action to curb insecurity.
Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and strengthen on-ground operations to prevent further violence. He also called for peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers, emphasizing dialogue over destruction.
The President further stated that no group or individual would be allowed to continue acts that threaten national unity and the safety of Nigerian citizens. “Our administration will not tolerate lawlessness. We must place humanity above hostility,” he added.
His visit included closed-door meetings with Governor Hyacinth Alia and other key stakeholders to assess the region’s security architecture and evaluate relief measures for affected communities.
