The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, addressing a crop of journalists at his country home in Markudi, Benue State, declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration would end the cycle of violence plaguing Benue State and the North Central region.
According to Akume, the protection of lives and property remains the cornerstone of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He added: “Let me be clear: the era where criminals spill innocent blood without consequences is over. President Tinubu has given strict orders—no stone will be left unturned in bringing these murderers to justice.”
The SGF’s remarks came after Tinubu’s solidarity visit to Benue State, where he condemned recent attacks and ordered security chiefs to intensify operations.
He expressed profound appreciation for the President’s intervention, adding: “I thank Mr. President from the depths of my heart for standing with Benue in our darkest hour. His presence here sends a powerful message, which is that the Federal Government will not abandon us!”
Akume, while commending security forces for their relentless efforts in the trenches, asserted, “As well as emergency responders and civil society groups aiding displaced communities. These cowardly attacks will not break our spirit!”
Turning to local leaders present, the SGF appealed, “I urge every Benue stakeholder—our governor, traditional rulers, lawmakers, and clergy—to set aside differences and join hands. Peace is not negotiable. I have initiated dialogues before; now is the time to scale up these efforts.”
He pledged to lead by example: “I will continue interfacing with our people across the North Central. But we must act as one. The governor must rally all voices toward this common goal. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we will crush this insecurity. To the criminals, your days are numbered. To Benue people, hope is here.”