In the aftermath of the devastating massacre that claimed nearly 200 lives in Yelewata village, Benue State, President Bola Tinubu convened a high-level peace committee on Wednesday to chart a path toward sustainable peace in the troubled region.
The committee features prominent figures such as former Military Governor Gen. Atom Kpera (retd.), Senators George Akume and Gabriel Suswam, former governors Samuel Ortom and others. Paramount traditional rulers, including HRM Prof. James Ayatse (Tor Tiv) and HRM Dr. John Elaigwu (Ochidoma), were also appointed.
At a town hall meeting in Makurdi, the President underscored the necessity of broad-based collaboration involving federal and state officials, traditional authorities, and non-indigenous residents. He charged Governor Hyacinth Alia with leading the committee’s efforts.
“Let us meet again in Abuja. Let’s fashion out a framework for lasting peace. I am ready to invest in that peace. I assure you, we will find peace. We will convert this tragedy into prosperity,” Tinubu said.
The gathering included governors from neighboring states Kwara, Imo, Kogi, Plateau, Ondo, and Nasarawa, with Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa emphasizing regional cooperation.
“We’re here to govern, not to bury. We’re here to raise families, not to lose some,” the President added, appealing for unity and peace.
The massacre, attributed to suspected armed herders, left scores dead and many injured, with homes burned and communities displaced. Amnesty International reported at least 100 fatalities, while police sources suggest the toll may be closer to 200.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of arrests, President Tinubu ordered the Inspector General of Police and Chief of Defence Staff to expedite the capture of the attackers.
“Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” he demanded.
He also urged intelligence agencies to strengthen their operations to prevent future attacks. “DG NIA and DG DSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence that this will not occur again,” he said.
Governor Alia called for a Special Intervention Fund to assist victims and rebuild affected communities. He also reiterated support for the establishment of state police to enhance security.
Traditional ruler Prof. Ayatse characterized the crisis as a “genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign,” warning against political exploitation of the violence.
The Northern Elders Forum labeled the violence “genocide” and blamed government inaction, while the Concerned Christian Youth Forum appealed for peace and justice.