The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent killings in Yelewata, Benue State, describing the bloodshed as both disheartening and utterly condemnable.
In a heartfelt statement, Akume said the continued mindless attacks across Benue — and in other states like Plateau and Zamfara- have inflicted a deep wound on the nation’s soul. He emphasised that the violence is economically motivated, not religiously driven.
“This latest reprehensible act, one among too many, is not just a tragedy for Benue; it is a national tragedy. The innocent lives lost, men, women, and children, will not be forgotten. We mourn them as brothers and sisters, bound by our shared humanity,” Akume said.
He called on all stakeholders in Benue, leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens, to unite urgently in pursuit of lasting peace and security, urging them to rise above divisions and act decisively to protect the people.
The SGF also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for promptly directing a full-scale security operation in Benue to restore calm and bring the perpetrators to justice. He acknowledged federal government support through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the deployment of additional troops to stabilise the region.
“As a son of the soil and a key stakeholder, I will not relent. I am actively consulting, mobilising, and coordinating efforts to find lasting solutions — not just for Benue, but for all affected states,” he said.
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Akume further called on Nigerians of all faiths to uphold the sanctity of human life, stressing that every life lost offends divine sensibility. He urged peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines.
Extending his condolences to the grieving families, Akume reaffirmed his commitment to justice and peace. “In this dark hour, we stand with the people of Benue. We will not rest until justice speaks, loudly, clearly, and without delay.”
He concluded with prayers for the souls of the departed and for peace to return to Benue State.