…As President Tinubu Plans For Townhall Meeting
Following the massacre in Benue State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator George Akume, to lead a delegation comprising the Inspector General of Police, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser, and key members of the National Assembly to assess the situation in the State.
This was even Tinubu’s planned town hall meeting with stakeholders to provide a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration.
Tinubu-led administration has condemned the massacre in Benue State and the North-Central region, describing such killings as senseless acts of violence, an affront to human dignity and also a direct challenge to the peace and stability of our nation.
Akume, in a signed statement, said his deepest condolences go to the families of the victims and the entire people of Benue State and those in the North-central, particularly Taraba and Plateau states
According to him, the loss of innocent lives in the Yelewata community and other affected areas was a tragedy that called for collective grief and urgent action.
He added: “I commend Mr. President for his decisive response in directing an immediate high-level delegation to Benue State and announcing his visit to the region. This demonstrates his commitment to the security and welfare of all Nigerians, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The President’s decision to visit Benue State on Wednesday is a clear testament to his hands-on leadership and empathy for the plight of affected communities. Such proactive engagement is vital in addressing the root causes of insecurity and fostering sustainable solutions.”
Akume’s instruction to the heads of intelligence to move to the scene of the massacre underscores the seriousness with which the President views these attacks, adding that as a former Governor of Benue State, he was acutely aware of the devastating impact of these violent attacks on his people.
He further said: “The disruption of livelihoods, displacement of communities, and destruction of property threaten not only individual well-being but also the socio-economic stability of the region.
“The Federal Government is fully committed to bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice. I urge our security agencies to intensify their efforts, enhance intelligence-gathering, and work closely with local communities to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed.
“President Tinubu’s planned town hall meeting with stakeholders during his visit will provide a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration. It is an opportunity to listen to the people’s concerns and develop actionable strategies to end this cycle of violence.
“The economic implications of insecurity in Benue and the North Central cannot be overstated. The disruption of agricultural activities, trade, and other financial ventures exacerbates poverty and food insecurity, with far-reaching consequences for the nation.
“Having served as Senator for Benue North-West and Minority Leader of the Senate, I understand the importance of legislative-executive synergy in tackling insecurity. The President Tinubu-led government will continue to work closely with the National Assembly and state governments to implement policies that enhance security and protect lives.
“I commend the resilience of the people of Benue and the North Central in the face of adversity. Your courage and determination inspire hope, and I urge you to remain steadfast as the government takes decisive steps to address these challenges.”
Akume maintained that the Tinubu administration remains resolute in its determination to restore peace and security across Nigeria.
He said that no effort will be spared in deploying the necessary resources and strategies to safeguard our citizens and their properties.
He said: “I am confident that President Tinubu’s visit will mark a significant turning point in our efforts to restore lasting peace in Benue and the North Central. His leadership and personal engagement will undoubtedly reinvigorate our collective resolve to end these senseless killings,” he said.
Akume called on all Nigerians to unite in support of the Federal Government’s efforts to ensure peace and stability in every part of our country.
He opined that security was a shared responsibility; therefore, everyone must play his or her part in fostering harmony and reporting suspicious activities to the authorities.
