Secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has met with the paramount traditional rulers of Benue State – the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty, Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John as part of continuous efforts to restore peace and security in the state.
The high-level meeting, held in Benue, followed a directive by President Bola Tinubu to urgently constitute a strategic peace committee aimed at addressing the root causes of violence in Benue and chart a path towards lasting reconciliation and stability.
According to a statement by the director information in his office, Segun Imohiosen, Senator Akume during the meeting, described the incident as heartbreaking and reiterated the president’s resolve to end the senseless killings in the “Food Basket of the Nation” and across the country.
“We want to appeal to you to continue to stay vigilant so that miscreants do not infiltrate the communities. Whenever you observe a breach, do not resist in informing us.
The president will never disappoint you,” he said.
He added that the inclusion of the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma in the process reflected the Tinubu administration’s recognition of the important role traditional institutions play in conflict resolution, community dialogue and peacebuilding.
In their remarks, the two monarchs commended Tinubu for his physical assessment in the state and assured of their full support and commitment to peace efforts. They also urged all Benue communities to give peace a chance and cooperate with the committee once inaugurated.
The proposed peace committee led by the SGF has commenced consultations immediately, with a mandate to recommend actionable solutions to end the attacks.
