Benue killings: Tinubu orders decisive action, tasks Alia on reconciliation

President Bola Tinubu has ordered Nigeria’s security chiefs to fully enforce his earlier directive to restore peace and security in Benue State, following renewed violence that claimed numerous lives over the weekend.

The President also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue to take immediate steps toward convening dialogue and reconciliation meetings among the warring parties in order to bring a lasting end to the recurrent bloodshed in the state.

This directive was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled “Benue Crisis: President Tinubu directs security chiefs to implement earlier directive, tasks Governor Alia on reconciliation.”

The renewed call to action follows a devastating attack on Yelewata village in Guma Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly killed at least 100 people, according to Amnesty International and local sources. Dozens remain missing, while many others sustained gunshot and burn injuries, including displaced persons who had earlier fled similar violence.

Security agencies, including intelligence operatives, police, and military personnel, have since been deployed to the area to coordinate operations aimed at restoring law and order.

“The President has directed immediate action by the security chiefs, and officers have already arrived in Benue to lead operations on the ground,” the statement read.

Beyond security interventions, Tinubu emphasized the importance of political and community leadership in de-escalating tensions. He urged leaders in the state to refrain from inflammatory remarks that could further ignite reprisals.

Describing the killings as “inhuman and anti-progress,” the President warned against rhetoric that fuels division and charged political actors to take responsibility for maintaining peace.

He stated, “The continued bloodshed in Benue is heartbreaking. I’ve instructed security agencies to act decisively—perpetrators of violence on all sides must be arrested and prosecuted. Enough is enough.”

President Tinubu further stressed that it was time for Governor Alia to demonstrate leadership by initiating dialogue and reconciliation efforts to bridge divides between farmers, herders, and communities.

“Our people deserve to live in peace,” he said. “This is achievable when leaders rise above division and work together to address grievances with fairness, transparency, and justice.”

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The President’s latest directive comes a month after the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, confirmed ongoing collaboration with state governors to enhance military operations and reduce insecurity across Nigeria.

Speaking after a security meeting on May 16, General Musa said, “The President is engaging with governors to ensure democratic dividends reach local communities as part of a broader strategy to combat insecurity.”

As the rainy season begins—often a flashpoint for farmer-herder disputes—authorities face renewed pressure to stem violence and rebuild trust in affected regions.