Former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep anguish over the recent attacks in Benue State, which reportedly claimed the lives of over 100 innocent citizens in what has been described as one of the deadliest episodes of violence in recent times.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, Atiku described the massacre as “devastating” and called for immediate, transparent, and forceful action from both the Federal and Benue State governments to address the worsening security crisis gripping the nation.
“These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation,” Atiku said. “Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced.”
The former Vice President extended his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and communities, offering thoughts and prayers to those who have suffered immeasurable loss. He stressed the need for a national moment of reflection on the tragic and growing toll of violence across the country.
Atiku issued a four-point demand to the authorities, calling for a prompt and transparent investigation into the attacks, a boost in security deployment to protect vulnerable rural areas, dialogue with affected communities to rebuild trust, and an accelerated compensation and support plan for survivors and bereaved families.
He emphasized that justice must be served by swiftly identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the killings, and urged authorities to deploy the necessary resources, personnel, and intelligence to forestall future attacks.
“The assault on innocent Nigerians is not just a local tragedy, it is a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action,” he stated.
Calling for national unity, Atiku urged Nigerians of all ethnic and religious backgrounds to collectively condemn the violence and demand accountability from leaders at all levels.
“We must hold our leaders accountable and insist on sustainable solutions to the violent tragedies claiming lives across the country,” he said.
He concluded his message with a prayer for national healing: “May God comfort the grieving families, heal our nation, and help us reclaim peace and security for all.”
The recent violence in Benue adds to a disturbing pattern of attacks in the Middle Belt region, often involving armed herdsmen, bandits, or unknown gunmen. Security experts and civil society organizations have continued to call for a coordinated strategy to address root causes of the conflict and ensure long-term stability.
