…urges unity and swift action for lasting peace in Benue
By Nkechi Eze
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent spate of killings in Benue State, particularly the tragic attack in Yelewata, which claimed numerous innocent lives. Describing the bloodshed as both “disheartening and utterly condemnable,” the SGF called for urgent collective action to restore peace and security across the troubled region.
In a heartfelt statement, Akume emphasized that the violence in Benue is not an isolated case but part of a wider wave of insecurity affecting other states such as Plateau and Zamfara. He categorically dismissed religious motives behind the violence, instead attributing it to deeper economic factors driving conflict in rural communities.
“This latest reprehensible act, one among too many, is not merely a tragedy for Benue; it is a deep wound to the soul of our nation,” the SGF lamented. He noted that the lives lost men, women, and children represent a collective tragedy and called on all stakeholders in Benue to rise above divisions and urgently pursue a united front for peace.
Akume expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swiftly ordering a full-scale security operation in response to the killings and for deploying more troops to stabilize the situation. He also acknowledged the support of the federal government through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which has begun offering humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
“As a son of the soil and a key stakeholder, I will not relent in consulting, mobilizing, and coordinating all necessary efforts to find and implement a durable solution,” he said, adding that similar efforts are underway in other affected states.
Calling on citizens of all faiths to uphold the sanctity of life, the SGF stressed the importance of unity, compassion, and decisive action. He offered his condolences to the grieving families and the resilient people of Benue, assuring them of the government’s commitment to justice and long-term peace.
“In this dark hour, we stand with you,” Akume affirmed. “And we will not rest until justice speaks loudly, clearly, and without delay.”
He concluded with a prayer for the repose of the souls of the departed and for the return of lasting peace to the land of Benue.
