President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday, described the recent killings in Benue State as deeply distressing.
He declared that such bloodshed must come to an end.
He affirmed that the federal government will not stand by while the violence continues.
In response to the attack, President Bola Tinubu ordered security chiefs to enforce his earlier directive aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability to the state.
Most of the victims were reportedly internally displaced persons who had been receiving medical care at a Catholic mission-run hospital.
The president also called on Governor Hyacinth Alia to urgently bring together all parties involved in the crisis for a reconciliation dialogue that would pave the way for sustainable peace.
Meanwhile, on Sunday morning, youths in Benue gathered at Wurukum Roundabout to protest the unrelenting violence by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
The peaceful demonstration was, however, dispersed with tear gas by police officers deployed to the scene.
According to a statement released by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu renewed his directive following the latest wave of attacks.
Intelligence operatives, police, and military personnel have since arrived in the state to coordinate security interventions and help restore order.
President Tinubu condemned the attacks as “inhuman and anti-progress,”.
Also, he urged political and community leaders in Benue to avoid provocative rhetoric capable of escalating the conflict.
He stressed the importance of responsible leadership in moments of crisis.
He calls on leaders to caution individuals who may be inciting reprisal violence.
He stated: “The latest reports of senseless killings in Benue State are heartbreaking. This bloodshed cannot be allowed to continue. Enough is enough.
“I have instructed security agencies to respond decisively, arrest all those responsible—regardless of the side they belong to—and ensure they face justice.
“Community and political leaders must refrain from making statements that could inflame the situation. This is a time for leadership, not division.”
He further tasked Governor Alia to take a statesmanlike approach in spearheading peace efforts:
“This is the moment for Governor Alia to step up and lead a sincere reconciliation process. Peace is achievable when leaders work together, and grievances are addressed through fairness, openness, and justice.”
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Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety and peaceful coexistence of all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.
