President Bola Tinubu has said that his administration would not allow enemies of peace to prevail in the country.
Tinubu stated this on Wednesday in Makurdi, during his visit to Benue, to commiserate with the people over the recent attacks on Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
Recall more than 200 people were killed, scores injured and houses and properties destroyed in the June 13 attack on Yelwata.
The President said that he was committed to investing in peace in Benue and across Nigeria.
He emphasised the need for unity, sincere leadership, and actionable peace strategies to defeat the enemies.
“We must listen to our people, keep our ears to the ground, and respond with tangible intelligence to prevent future attacks.
“We will not allow the enemies of peace to prevail. I want you to know that you have my full support, and together, we will bring prosperity back to Benue.
“As leaders, we must carry the people in our hearts. Only then can we deliver programmes that change lives and secure futures,” he said.
He charged Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue, to work hard and restore peace in the state.
“All politics is local; not everyone will like you. Some did the same to me too, but I am the President.
“The yolk is on you. That is part of the responsibilities of leadership. Your political enemies don’t want you to succeed.
“My people of Benue, please work with your governor to achieve peace. The governor needs your help; encourage him, and let’s build peace,” he urged.
He tasked security agencies to always listen to the people and keep their ears on the ground to get tangible information to prevent future occurrences.
Tinubu to constitute peace committee to end killings in Benue
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has directed that a peace resolution committee be constituted to end the ongoing killings in Benue and its environs.
Tinubu gave the directive at a Town Hall meeting with Benue stakeholders, as part of his efforts to address the incessant attacks, killings, and displacements of communities in the state.
The President directed governments of Benue and Nasarawa to constitute the committee to find lasting solutions to the crisis.
He listed the Tor Tiv, Prof James Ayatse, Och’Idoma Elaigwu Odogbo,.Gen Atom Kpera (rtd) all former governors, elder statesmen, amongst others, to be members of the committee.
He pledged commitment to
invest in the peace project to ensure lasting peace in the state.
According to Tinubu, Benue people have no option than to find lasting peace and convert the tragedy into a strong economic prosperity.
“I am committed to investing in peace here in Benue and across Nigeria. Let us create a peace and development committee now, with representation from all stakeholders, including government, traditional leaders, youths, and women.
“Let us meet and design a lasting solution. I’m ready to invest in this peace project. Whatever happens, we will find peace and convert this tragedy into economic prosperity.
“We are to govern, not to bury. We are here to multiply, not to lose numbers,” he said.
The President sympathised with Benue people, especially the people of Yelewata, over the attacks and emphasised the need for unity, sincere leadership, and actionable peace strategies.
“We are here not just to mourn but to reflect deeply with you. What affects Benue affects all of us. As Nigerians, we are members of the same family, perhaps sleeping in different rooms, but living under the same roof.
“Whether you are Tiv, Idoma, Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo, this country is our shared heritage. We must build it together. We must find solutions, not just talk about the problems.
“Let us stop seeing one another as enemies. We must stop opening doors to terror and violence. We must embrace peace with serious understanding.
“This level of terrorism and conflict must not continue. We need synergy between leaders, traditional rulers, and the youths. It is only when the people feel secured and valued that development can truly take roots,” the president said.
Tinubu’s visit: Benue Govt. reiterates call for state police
Similarly, the Benue State Government reiterated its stance on the establishment of state police as a sustainable solution to the persistent insecurity in the state.
Gov. Hyacinth Alia stated this on Wednesday at the town hall meeting with President Bola Tinubu, who is in the state to commiserate with the people of Benue over the recent attack on a community.
Alia noted that though there were concerns about the implementation, the Federal Government could spell out guidelines and regulatory frameworks to prevent its misuse.
“We humbly urge the Federal Government to consider establishing a special intervention fund for communities affected by the incessant attacks.
“Such funds would go a long way to support the rehabilitation of those displaced from their ancestral homes.
“These funds can also restore the livelihood of the farmers and their families as government would keep working to ensure that the people are not only safe, but can thrive on their land.
“We want to thank the security agencies in Benue for their efforts, but we solicit for more security measures to be taken to confront the challenges at hand as the attacks on the peace loving people of Benue have persisted for a decade.
“It, however, looks like a calculated attempt to annihilate the people of Benue and take over their ancestral homes,” Alia said.
The governor said that the visit of service chiefs and other security formations had given the people a ray of hope that there could be lasting peace and they would not be subjected to further inhumane actions.
“We want to thank Mr. President for taking time out to come and mourn with the people of Benue as we believe this would bring an end to the security challenges that have persisted.
“Even though our hearts are heavy over the loss of our loved ones and ancestral homes, our hope is ignited by your visit.
“We thank Mr President for cancelling other engagements of concern to visit the people of Benue after the Yelwata attack as this is a true demonstration of leadership,” he said
The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives during the attack and expressed hope for a better Benue.