A coalition of concerned groups in Benue State has issued a fervent appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, decrying the continued killings by armed herders and asserting that local communities are being pushed to the brink of self-defense. The urgent plea comes amid a renewed wave of violence in the “Food Basket of the Nation,” which has seen scores of lives lost and widespread displacement.
The groups, speaking collectively, emphasized that despite past assurances and directives from the Federal Government, armed attacks on farming communities remain rampant. “Armed herders are still killing and we must defend ourselves,” a spokesperson for the coalition stated, echoing the growing frustration and desperation among the populace.
Recent reports indicate a grim reality on the ground. Just over a week ago, more than 70 people were reportedly killed in an attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, with some victims burned beyond recognition. This incident follows a pattern of brutal assaults that have plagued the state for years, often leading to mass casualties and the destruction of homes and farmlands.
President Tinubu recently visited Benue State, assessing the aftermath of the Yelwata attacks and meeting with victims and stakeholders. During his visit, he reiterated directives to security chiefs to “act decisively and arrest perpetrators of these evil acts on all sides of the conflict and prosecute them.” He also urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to convene reconciliation meetings and dialogue.
However, Benue groups argue that these directives have not translated into tangible security on the ground. They contend that the nature of the crisis transcends simple farmer-herder clashes, with some local leaders, including the Tor Tiv V, His Royal Majesty James Ayatse, describing it as a “calculated, well-planned, full-scale genocidal” assault. This narrative strongly refutes suggestions that the violence is merely a result of resource scarcity or communal disagreements.
The persistent insecurity has had devastating consequences for Benue State, traditionally a major agricultural hub. Farming activities have been severely disrupted, raising concerns about food security not just for the state, but for the entire nation. Thousands have been displaced, living in dire conditions in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, with limited access to essential services.
The call for self-defense by the Benue groups highlights the critical need for a more robust and effective security strategy. While some advocate for the establishment of state police to address localized security challenges, others caution that unmanaged community defense efforts could lead to further instability.
As the violence continues to simmer, the pressure mounts on President Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate concrete action beyond condemnations and directives.
The affected communities in Benue State are demanding justice for the victims, prosecution of perpetrators, and a long-term solution that guarantees their safety and allows them to return to their livelihoods. The ongoing crisis in Benue remains a significant test for the federal government’s commitment to securing the lives and property of all Nigerians.
