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| Chiefs pledge safety as they inspect Yelewata |
Nigeria’s Benue State saw a high-level security review today ahead of President Tinubu’s planned trip. Governor Hyacinth Alia led the team. He stood with the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and IGP Kayode Egbetokun. They went to Yelewata to gauge safety after recent violence.
The visit follows orders from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He told security chiefs to restore calm in the state . The president had also condemned the attack as senseless bloodshed .
Yelewata suffered heavy losses over the past weekend. Survivors say about 150 people died when gunmen struck late Friday night . Officials report at least 100 deaths, dozens missing, and many injured .
Local farmers and herders have clashed over land and water access for years. Community leaders urge stronger patrols, better patrol plans, and clear communication channels. A village chief said, “We need visible security posts near farms.”
At Yelewata’s market square, Governor Alia met with survivors. He listened to their fears. He promised the state would build safe shelters and improve patrols. He urged calm, calling for unity among all groups.
General Musa surveyed the damaged homes. He spoke of better troop deployments. He said troops would join local guards in round-the-clock patrols. He added that intelligence units would share info faster.
IGP Egbetokun reviewed police moves so far. He noted that some officers lacked local maps and guides. He asked for more drones to watch remote roads. He said police will team up with military aides.
Security experts warn that checks must go beyond roads. Dr. Aisha Bello of Abuja Security Forum says lasting peace needs talks between farmers and herders. She calls for genuine dialogue panels in each community.
Civil rights groups stress fair treatment for all. They remind officials that suspects need due process. Amnesty International Nigeria urges prompt medical help for victims and free legal aid.
Benue’s health commissioner says local hospitals are overwhelmed. He asked federal help for more ambulances and medics. He noted that many injured have burns and gunshot wounds.
A youth leader in Yelewata asked for school rebuilding funds. He fears children won’t return if schools stay closed. He suggested mobile classrooms under UN tents.
President Tinubu plans to visit on June 20, 2025. He will meet families, soldiers, and police. He will also launch a state-wide security conference with Alia and chiefs.
Security experts warn that checks must go beyond roads. Dr. Aisha Bello of Abuja Security Forum says lasting peace needs talks between farmers and herders. She calls for genuine dialogue panels in each community.
Civil rights groups stress fair treatment for all. They remind officials that suspects need due process. Amnesty International Nigeria urges prompt medical help for victims and free legal aid.
Benue’s health commissioner says local hospitals are overwhelmed. He asked federal help for more ambulances and medics. He noted that many injured have burns and gunshot wounds.
A youth leader in Yelewata asked for school rebuilding funds. He fears children won’t return if schools stay closed. He suggested mobile classrooms under UN tents.
President Tinubu plans to visit on June 20, 2025. He will meet families, soldiers, and police. He will also launch a state-wide security conference with Alia and chiefs.
Experts say the conference must include governors of nearby states. They face similar violence. Dr. Bello says regional talks can cut cross-border raids.
Humanitarian groups stand ready. Red Cross Nigeria promises food and water. UNICEF will send trauma counselors for children.
Local businesses hope the visit will bring investment and jobs. A trader said, “We want to rebuild our shops and markets.”
Social media buzzed with calls for calm. Hashtags like #PeaceInBenue trended. Civic groups are urging people to share hopeful messages.
Balanced coverage needs both grief and hope. Yelewata mourns its dead. Yet leaders vow stronger action. Citizens ask for transparency and quick results.
This deep look at Yelewata shows a united front. Governor Alia, Gen. Musa, and IGP Egbetokun stand firm. They promise lasting safety.
This deep look at Yelewata shows a united front. Governor Alia, Gen. Musa, and IGP Egbetokun stand firm. They promise lasting safety.