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President Bola Tinubu announced the formation of a committee on Wednesday aimed at restoring sustainable peace in Benue State following last Friday's massacre in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area, where approximately 200 individuals were killed.
The peace committee includes notable members such as former Military Governor of Benue, Gen Atom Kpera (retd.), and former governors Senator George Akume, Senator Gabriel Suswam, and Samuel Ortom.
Traditional leaders HRM Prof. James Ayatse, the Paramount Ruler of Tiv Nation, and HRM Dr. John Elaigwu, the Ochidoma, are also part of the committee.
During a town hall meeting at the Governor's residence in Makurdi, Tinubu stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement in achieving peaceful governance and encouraged Governor Hyacinth Alia to lead the committee's initiatives, which will also involve federal officials and non-indigenes residing in the state.
He expressed his commitment to turning this tragedy into a foundation for prosperity, stating, “Let’s convene again in Abuja to develop a framework for lasting peace. I assure you, we will achieve peace.”
The meeting also included various governors from states like Kwara, Imo, and Nasarawa, emphasizing the need for collaboration with neighboring regions to facilitate peace.
Addressing the violence, Tinubu called for the inclusion of traditional rulers in the peace efforts and reminded the community of its importance in supporting the governor to foster an inclusive environment.
He assured them of federal support and his determination to break the cycle of violence, promising, “We will transform this tragedy into prosperity.”
Reports indicate that armed herders attacked Yelewata village, resulting in significant casualties and widespread fear among residents as they brace for possible further violence in the dry season, traditionally a contentious time for farming and grazing.
Following the attack, Tinubu directed law enforcement leaders to expedite arrests of the perpetrators, expressing disappointment over the lack of apprehensions following the tragedy, urging law enforcement to remain vigilant.
He also instructed intelligence agencies to refine information-gathering systems to prevent future occurrences.
Additionally, he underscored the necessity of allocating land for ranching and encouraged blood donations for the injured.
He highlighted the crucial role of peace in development and regretted that his visit was necessitated by tragedy rather than to inaugurate projects. He implored the governor to work collaboratively toward peace.
Governor Alia, advocating for a Special Intervention Fund to help communities affected by violence, voiced concerns about rehabilitation and infrastructure reconstruction for displaced individuals and stressed the importance of establishing state police for improved security.
During the meeting, Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, commended Tinubu for his direct engagement with the victims and condemned the ongoing violence, which he characterized as a calculated genocide perpetuated by herder-terrorists, countering claims of it being merely herder-farmer conflict and accusing politicians of exploiting the situation.
The Northern Elders Forum condemned the persistent violence in Benue, labeling it genocide caused by governmental inaction and systemic failures. They pointed out the urgent need for security and governance accountability.
The Concerned Christian Youth Forum expressed deep concern over the violence, calling for immediate action to restore peace and protect lives, while standing in solidarity with affected families.
