Benue Killings: Stop The Madness Now – Christian Council

The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has condemned in the strongest terms the recent mass killing of over 200 people in Yelewata, Guma local government area of Benue State, describing the act as a “madness” that must stop immediately.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, the president of the council, His Grace, The Most Rev. Dr David Onuoha, said the council joins “people of conscience from all over the world” in mourning the lives lost and in calling for immediate, decisive action from the federal government.

“This is the most recent in the orgy of killings going on in different parts of the country, especially in Benue and Plateau States,” the statement said. “Let this madness stop now!”

The CCN questioned the effectiveness of security operations in the region, noting that the attack occurred just days after the chief of army staff relocated to Benue to address insecurity.

“It is very disturbing to note that most of these atrocities take place in the shadow of security checkpoints,” the council lamented. “It is disheartening that the government has always issued statements condemning these acts and giving assurances that do not go beyond political correctness.”

The council expressed concern over the apparent failure of security agencies to arrest or prosecute any of the perpetrators, despite the ongoing bloodshed, including the deaths of security personnel themselves.

“These merchants of death are not ghosts nor spirits,” the Council said. “But the failure of our security agents to arrest any of them leaves more questions than answers.”

The Christian Council also raised concerns about the occupation of sacked communities by unknown persons, asking why authorities have failed to determine whether the attackers are Nigerians or foreigners. It warned that if foreign actors are involved, Nigeria’s sovereignty is under direct threat.

To stem the tide of violence, the council called for the immediate declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity in Benue, Plateau, and other affected states. It also proposed a temporary halt to political activities, particularly campaign preparations for the 2027 elections.

“We demand that campaigns be suspended for at least six months while the government focuses squarely on restoring peace and security,” the statement urged. “Elections are for the living, not the dead.”

Reaffirming its solidarity with the bereaved families, the Christian Council prayed for divine comfort and healing, urging the government to give Nigerians “the best dividend of democracy — peace.”

“The land has had enough blood. May God be pleased to usher in a river of joy and gladness in our country,” the statement concluded.