Centre for Redefining Alternative Civic Engagement for Africa (RACE Centre) has expressed displeasure regarding the continuous killings in Benue State, condemning in particular the recent attack in Yelewata village, Guma Local Government Area of the State, which reportedly claimed the lives of over 200 innocent citizens.
Executive Director of RACE Centre, Evelyn Ugbe, labelled the incident as an “unimaginable horror” and a stark reminder of Nigeria’s escalating insecurity in a press statement signed in Abuja.
The organisation highlighted the brutal nature of the assault, stating that on the fateful day, Yelewata village became a scene of unimaginable horror, underscoring the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation.
“This wave of senseless violence, rooted in the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, represents a gross violation of human rights and a profound stain on our national conscience,” the statement noted.
RACE Africa underscored the legal and constitutional implications of the killings. “These attacks represent a blatant violation of both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights conventions,” the group stated.
“The killings contravene the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts the right to life, security, and protection from violence. Furthermore, the ongoing violence in Benue State undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed to all citizens as enshrined in Chapter IV of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, which protects the right to life and personal dignity,” the statement read.
The group extended its deepest sympathies to the victims’ families. “We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving families and stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Benue,” the statement read, adding that it is “imperative that the government acts decisively to ensure the safety of all citizens and to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.”
Alarming details emerged from the aftermath of the attack, with RACE Centre noting the severe lack of information and care for victims. “Reports indicate that many individuals remain missing, and countless others are injured, deprived of access to urgent medical care,” the organization highlighted. “Disturbingly, some families were locked in their homes and burned alive. The absence of a clear death toll is utterly unacceptable.” While acknowledging efforts, the group found the current response insufficient. “Governor Hyacinth Alia’s delegation to support victims’ families, while commendable, falls woefully short in the face of such brutality.”
RACE Centre also raised serious concerns regarding the efficacy of security forces in the region. “It is alarming that despite the relocation of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to Benue State, the killings continue unabated under his watch,” the statement concluded. “This raises serious questions about the effectiveness of military leadership in protecting our most vulnerable communities.”
In light of the tragedy, RACE Centre issued a series of demands for immediate and concrete actions from the government, specifically addressing President Bola Tinubu.
The organisation demanded series of action and further called for accountability to end the violence while also stressing the need for comprehensive support.
“Deploy Additional Security Forces: Protect vulnerable communities and prevent further bloodshed. The time for action is now!”
“Launch Immediate Investigations: Conduct transparent investigations into these atrocities. Those responsible must be swiftly identified and brought to justice,” the statement read.
“Develop Comprehensive Programs: Address the urgent needs of women and children affected by this violence, fostering dialogue and reconciliation among conflicting communities.”
“Provide Urgent Support: Ensure that families devastated by this violence receive necessary resources and compensation for their recovery,” it added.
RACE Centre urged presidential intervention and reiterated the urgency of the situation.
“The time for decisive action is now. We implore the government to respond with the urgency that this crisis demands.”
“We call on President Tinubu to prioritize the safety of Benue State and take a personal interest in restoring peace and security in the region,” it added.
