President Bola Tinubu has ordered security chiefs to immediately implement his earlier directives aimed at ending the persistent violence in Benue State.
This renewed directive follows a fresh wave of reprisal attacks in the state, which reportedly claimed several lives.
In response, top intelligence officials, police authorities, and military commanders have been deployed to Benue to oversee intensified security operations and help restore order.
The President also urged Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to take the lead in organizing reconciliation meetings and facilitating dialogue among farmers, herders, and local communities affected by the recurring violence.
Describing the ongoing bloodshed as “inhuman and anti-progress,” Tinubu condemned the loss of lives and expressed deep concern over the rising tensions.
He warned political and community leaders in the state against making unguarded statements that could escalate the crisis further.
“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough,” the President said.
He directed security agencies to act swiftly in arresting and prosecuting those responsible for the attacks, regardless of the side they belong to in the conflict.
“This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue. Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across the divides work together in harmony and differences are identified and addressed with fairness, openness and justice,” Tinubu added.
The presidency emphasized that lasting peace in Benue requires unity and collaboration from all stakeholders, warning that provocations and retaliatory actions must come to an end.