By Nkechi Eze
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his timely visit to Benue State amid escalating security concerns, assuring that the federal government is committed to restoring lasting peace in the region.
In a press statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the SGF’s office, Segun Imohiosen, Akume described the President’s visit as a bold and compassionate gesture that underscores his dedication to resolving the lingering crisis in the state. He commended President Tinubu for taking the time despite his busy schedule to directly engage stakeholders and assess the situation firsthand.
During the President’s recent town hall meeting in Benue, he met with traditional rulers, political leaders, and community representatives, where key issues surrounding the ongoing attacks and communal violence were discussed. The meeting, according to Akume, marked a pivotal step toward forging a united front against the persistent insecurity plaguing the state.
In a major move to address the root causes of the violence, President Tinubu has directed Senator Akume to coordinate the formation of a peace committee. The committee will include prominent figures such as former Governors of Benue State, the Tor Tiv, the Och’Idoma, and other influential stakeholders. The group is expected to meet with the President in Abuja to deliberate on viable and practical solutions that align with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Senator Akume reaffirmed his commitment to the directive, emphasizing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue and cooperation. He pledged to work closely with community leaders, civil society organizations, security agencies, and traditional institutions to develop a robust framework that addresses the underlying causes of conflict and promotes reconciliation and stability across the state.
The SGF concluded by expressing hope that this coordinated initiative will mark a turning point for Benue and set a precedent for collaborative peacebuilding efforts across Nigeria.
