Benue Killings: A Nation in Mourning and a State Under Siege

🔥 The Yelewata Massacre: 

A Grim Night to Remember In one of the deadliest attacks this year, armed assailants stormed Yelewata in Benue State between June 13th and 14th, leaving behind a trail of destruction, death, and despair. 

Survivors recall the horror of waking up to flames and gunshots as the attackers set homes ablaze and slaughtered families in their sleep. 

 Death Toll: Estimates range from 100 to 150 people killed, with many bodies burnt beyond recognition. 

 Casualties: Many of the victims were displaced persons sheltering in a local marketplace. 

 Method of Attack: Coordinated night raids, arson, and close-range killings. This tragedy is not isolated. It adds to the long list of coordinated assaults that have turned Benue State into a perpetual mourning ground. --- 

💣 A Pattern of Bloodshed: Earlier Attacks in 2025 Benue has witnessed a series of coordinated attacks throughout the year: April–May 2025: Over 40 people killed across Tyolaha, Aondona, and Ahume. February 2025: Dozens murdered in Gwer West and Otukpo. 2023–2025 Total: Amnesty International estimates over 6,800 people killed in Benue alone. These are not random incidents. They reflect a systemic problem—one rooted in land conflict, politics, religion, and a failing security structure. --- ⚖️ Root Causes of the Benue Conflict The violence in Benue is complex and deeply rooted in: 

 1. Farmer-Herder Clashes: Struggles over land, water, and grazing rights between mostly Christian farmers and Fulani herders. 

2. Religious/Ethnic Tension: The divide between Christian Tiv communities and predominantly Muslim Fulani groups. 

3. Climate Change: Desertification in the north is pushing herders south into farming regions. 

4. Weak Security: Inconsistent enforcement of the Anti-Grazing Law and lack of proactive policing. 

5. Political Allegations: Governor Alia has hinted at political elements fueling the violence for ulterior motives. --- 🚨 Government and Public Response President Bola Tinubu has publicly condemned the killings and is expected to visit Benue for the first time since assuming office. Governor Hyacinth Alia has described the violence as "coordinated" and "terrorist-like." Civil Society & Religious Bodies—including the Catholic Church, CAN, and NBA—are calling for immediate state police and federal action. Yet, locals say they feel abandoned. --- 

 

The Human Cost Displacement: Over 3,000 people were displaced in just the Yelewata attack. Livelihoods Lost: Farms, food stores, and markets destroyed—crippling the economy of Nigeria’s “Food Basket.” Psycho-social Trauma: Women, children, and elderly persons are the worst hit—living in camps with no hope in sight. The humanitarian needs are urgent, and so is the need for justice. --- 🛠️ What Needs to Be Done Here are practical solutions that the government and stakeholders must consider: 

1. Establish State Police: Community-based security systems are urgently needed. 

2. Strengthen Anti-Grazing Enforcement: Laws must be respected and ranching must be encouraged. 

3. Investigate & Prosecute: There must be a full probe into the attacks, especially alleged political sponsors. 

 

4. Promote Dialogue: Use traditional and religious leaders to mediate and restore trust between farmers and herders. 

5. Humanitarian Relief: Support displaced persons with shelter, food, and trauma care. --- ✊ Final Thoughts Benue’s story is Nigeria’s story—one of promise darkened by persistent bloodshed. The Yelewata massacre is not just another news headline; it is a cry for help. Every life lost is a national tragedy, and every day of silence is complicity. If Nigeria must truly be a place of peace and prosperity, then Benue must be protected. The time to act is now. --- 📢 What Can You Do? Share this post to raise awareness. Tag your lawmakers and demand action. Support NGOs working with internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue. Pray for peace, but also speak for justice.