Benue Massacre: Tinubu Vows to Tackle Land-Grabbing for Peace

Benue Massacre: Tinubu Vows to Tackle Land

Makurdi — President Bola Tinubu has pledged to tackle land-grabbing in Benue State if it is identified as the root cause of repeated killings by armed herdsmen. During his visit to the state, following the massacre of over 200 people in Yelwata, Tinubu announced the formation of a peace committee made up of former governors, traditional rulers, and non-indigenes to resolve the crisis.

The President condemned the violence, which also left hundreds displaced and homeless. Speaking during a town hall meeting in Makurdi, he emphasized that Nigerians must learn to coexist peacefully, stating, “We were elected to bring development, not bury victims of violence.”

Tinubu said the country has enough land to support everyone and stressed that cooperation is essential for peace and prosperity. He added that the national anthem’s message of unity should be reflected in actions.

The President tasked the Inspector General of Police and Chief of Defence Staff with arresting the perpetrators, questioning why no one had been apprehended for the massacre. He also called on the DSS and NIA to intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance to capture the criminals.

Although rain and poor roads prevented him from visiting Yelwata directly, Tinubu said he had reviewed footage of the destruction and assured residents that the government would support redevelopment efforts.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia praised the President’s visit, describing it as a historic show of concern. He expressed hope that Tinubu’s intervention would bring long-awaited peace and reiterated calls for the creation of state police to enhance local security.

Tor Tiv, HRM Prof. James Ayatse, also addressed the President, clarifying that the violence is not a result of communal or farmer-herder clashes but a coordinated campaign of ethnic cleansing and land seizure. He urged the federal government to act decisively to end the killings and allow farmers to return to their lands.

Meanwhile, in Nasarawa State, more than 3,000 displaced persons—mostly women and children—are in dire need of food, shelter, and medical aid in IDP camps. According to the state emergency agency (NASEMA), the camps in Kadarko, Agyaragu, Idadu, and Kpata are overwhelmed. Many victims fled the Yelwata attack and are enduring harsh conditions with limited supplies.

A displaced woman, Mary Iyorhe, pleaded for urgent support, describing the living conditions as unbearable. Residents complained about hunger, mosquito infestations, and lack of privacy in overcrowded shelters.

Vanguard

Related Posts: