President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security chiefs to take decisive action in restoring peace and stability in Benue State following a new wave of reprisal attacks that have left several people dead.
The directive was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who stated that the President issued the order in response to the latest surge in communal violence. Security agencies, including intelligence operatives, the police, and the military, have since been mobilized to the state to contain the unrest and safeguard affected communities.
President Tinubu also called on Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to urgently convene reconciliation dialogues involving farmers, herders, and local stakeholders in order to halt the cycle of violence and promote peaceful coexistence.
Condemning the renewed attacks as “inhuman and anti-progress,” the President criticized both individuals and community leaders whose inciting rhetoric continues to fuel hostilities. He urged all political, religious, and traditional leaders in the region to exercise restraint and take responsibility for promoting peace.
“The killings must stop,” President Tinubu declared, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and the prosecution of all those involved, regardless of affiliation.
He also charged Governor Alia to rise above political and ethnic divisions, and to spearhead an inclusive and transparent reconciliation process built on fairness, justice, and mutual respect.
“Lasting peace is possible when leaders lead with integrity and a commitment to equity,” the President said.
The renewed directive comes amid increasing national concern over persistent violence in Benue, which has displaced thousands and deepened tensions among farming and pastoralist communities.