Makurdi, Nigeria – June 16, 2025
Benue State has been plunged into turmoil, with over 200 people killed in a series of violent attacks allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen. The assaults on communities, including Yelewata and Guma Local Government Area, have resulted in widespread destruction and mass displacement.
Survivors’ Stories and Rising Tensions
Eyewitnesses recount horrific scenes, with one resident losing 20 family members in a single night. Calls for self-defense have intensified, as security forces struggle to contain the violence. A federal lawmaker has urged communities to defend themselves, citing government inaction.
National Outrage and Leadership Criticism
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the government’s silence, describing it as a failure of leadership. Meanwhile, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) is pushing for security watch committees across all 774 local councils to tackle the crisis.
Presidential Directives
President Bola Tinubu has responded with two key orders:
A directive for security forces to take immediate action.
An appeal for dialogue and reconciliation between warring groups.
What’s Next?
With tensions escalating, community leaders and activists demand concrete solutions. Security experts warn that failure to act swiftly could lead to wider instability in the region.
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