Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has condemned in strong terms the brutal killing of over 200 persons in Yelewata, Guma local government area of Benue State, describing the attack as “barbaric” and “totally unacceptable.”
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Terrence Kuanum, Akume, who governed Benue State between 1999 and 2007, expressed deep sorrow over the weekend massacre, mostly affecting women and children, and called for urgent action to end such acts of terror across the country.
“The SGF, who remains in a deep state of mourning over the incident, denounces it as mindless barbarism,” the statement read. “It is totally unacceptable that over 200 innocent persons will have their lives cut short in such a cruel manner.”
Akume extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the injured and survivors. He stressed the need for collective resolve to bring an end to the cycle of violence in Benue and other parts of the country.
“As a former state governor, I understand the complexities involved in combating insecurity, and I enjoin all political, religious, and traditional leaders to unite on the task of ending all forms of insecurity, not just in Benue State, but across Nigeria,” he said.
Backing the recent directive by President Bola Tinubu to the nation’s service chiefs to take decisive action in Benue, Akume expressed optimism that the order would yield results under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.
He urged the people of Benue not to lose hope, but to remain resolute and cooperate with security agencies to defeat the evil of terrorism and banditry.
“Now is the time for us all, leaders and citizens alike, to rise in unity against those who seek to destroy our communities,” the SGF stated.
His comments come as the inspector-general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, visited the state and deployed additional tactical units to contain the violence and restore calm.
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