Tinubu orders security agencies to act decisively, arrest perpetrators of Benue killings

President Bola Tinubu has told security agencies to arrest perpetrators of the continuous killings in Benue state.

Tinubu also appealed to political and community leaders not to make utterances that could heighten tensions in the state.

On June 14, more than 100 people were murdered in attacks by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Daudu communities, in Guma LGA of Benue state.

The death toll from the massacre had reportedly jumped to 200 by Sunday.

This came less than two days after the killing of 25 people in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa communities in Makurdi LGA.

In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Tinubu described the killings as “inhuman and anti-progress”.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The president reiterated his earlier directive to security chiefs.

Tinubu also asked political and community leaders in conflict areas to stop fuelling the crisis through “unguarded utterances and rein in those who go out to cause provocations and ignite reprisal attacks”.

“I have directed the security agencies to act decisively and arrest perpetrators of these evil acts on all sides of the conflict and prosecute them,” he said.

“Political and community leaders in Benue State must act responsibly and avoid inflammatory utterances that could further increase tensions and killings.

“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.”