Abuja, Nigeria — In the wake of a deadly massacre in Yelwata, a border community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s security chiefs to take urgent and decisive steps to end the ongoing violence that has plagued the region for years.
The President’s directive comes amid national outrage and mounting international concern following the killing of at least 25 civilians in a brutal overnight attack allegedly carried out by unidentified gunmen. Survivors say the assailants invaded the community with sophisticated weapons, burning homes and leaving a trail of devastation.
"Enough is enough," says Tinubu
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President described the attack as “barbaric and unacceptable in a civilized society.” He expressed deep sympathy to the families of the victims and reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to restoring peace in Benue and other conflict-prone areas.
“The lives of every Nigerian, regardless of region, religion, or ethnicity, matter. This administration will not stand idly by while citizens are being slaughtered,” the President stated firmly.
Military Reinforcements Ordered
Following Tinubu's directive, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, are said to have convened an emergency security meeting to review field intelligence and mobilize reinforcements to the affected area.
A joint task force comprising the military, police, and civil defence corps is expected to be deployed within 72 hours to begin coordinated operations against suspected militias and criminal gangs operating in the Benue-Nasarawa axis.
International Reaction: Pope Francis Offers Prayers
The massacre has also attracted global attention. At a special prayer gathering in Vatican City, Pope Francis offered prayers for the souls of the victims and urged Nigerian authorities to “protect the innocent and pursue justice with compassion.” The Pontiff's words were broadcast during a live Angelus address, drawing emotional reactions from the Nigerian Catholic community.
State Government Reacts
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, condemned the attack and declared three days of mourning in the state. He has called for increased federal collaboration to tackle what he described as “a systematic attempt to wipe out entire communities.”
“This is not just a Benue crisis; this is a national emergency,” Governor Alia told reporters in Makurdi.
Recurring Tragedy
This latest attack adds to a growing list of violent incidents in Benue State, which has seen hundreds of deaths over the past decade due to farmer-herder clashes, land disputes, and militia activity. Yelwata, located along the boundary with Nasarawa State, has been especially vulnerable due to its remote location and limited security presence.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International and CLEEN Foundation, have called for a full investigation and long-term peacebuilding efforts.
Looking Forward
As security operations intensify, many Nigerians are calling for more than just military intervention. Local community leaders, civil society organizations, and religious figures are urging the government to address the root causes of violence — including poverty, displacement, and access to justice.
Meanwhile, residents of Yelwata and surrounding communities remain on edge, with many fleeing to nearby IDP camps for safety.
NewsHouz will continue to monitor developments in Benue State and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
