President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security chiefs to fully implement his earlier mandate aimed at restoring peace and security in Benue State, following renewed reprisal attacks that claimed several lives.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the continued killings as “inhuman and anti-progress,” and emphasized the urgent need for decisive action.
Following the President’s directive, key intelligence officers, police commanders, and military officials have been deployed to Benue to coordinate and strengthen ongoing security operations in the state.
President Tinubu also tasked Governor Hyacinth Alia with immediately initiating reconciliation and dialogue efforts among the conflicting parties—particularly farmers, herders, and affected communities—aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and putting an end to the cycle of violence.
“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough,” the President declared.
He further instructed security agencies to act decisively, arrest all perpetrators regardless of affiliation, and ensure they are brought to justice. Tinubu also warned political and community leaders in the state to avoid inflammatory rhetoric that could aggravate tensions.
“Political and community leaders in Benue State must act responsibly and avoid inflammatory utterances that could further increase tensions and killings,” he said.
Calling on Governor Alia to rise to the challenge, Tinubu stated: “This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue. Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across the divides work together in harmony and differences are identified and addressed with fairness, openness, and justice.”
