The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has issued a passionate statement condemning the relentless killings in Benue State, and calling for urgent self-defense measures by the youth in the state.
In a press statement signed by the group’s convener, James Paul Adama, and released on Tuesday, the CCYF described the violence as a “systematic extermination” of innocent civilians.
The forum expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the rising death toll, particularly in the wake of the recent massacre in Yelewata community of Guma local government area of the State, where over 200 people were reportedly killed in a coordinated attacks.
“The suffering of the Benue people is a tragic reminder of our collective failure to protect them,” the statement read.
“The blood of our brothers and sisters cries out from the ground, and their cries are a deafening condemnation of the inaction and indifference of those in positions of power.”
The group urged the youths of Benue to “rise up without delay and defend themselves and their ancestral lands with every ounce of their strength and determination,” noting that continued passivity would only enable further violence.
Beyond calling for grassroots mobilisation, the CCYF also implored Benue’s political leaders to set aside partisan differences and unite in pursuit of peace and security.
“No political goal is worth sacrificing the lives of your people. You must set aside your differences and focus on the task at hand: securing a peaceful and prosperous future for your state,” Adama said.
The statement emphasised the need for concerted efforts by security agencies to identify and prosecute the perpetrators behind the escalating violence. They also called for national solidarity and prayers for the people of Benue State as they continue to grapple with grief and displacement.
“We stand in solidarity with you and are committed to working together to ensure that justice is served,” the CCYF stated. “We implore the security agencies to intensify their efforts in rooting out the perpetrators of these horrific acts and bringing them to justice.”
The group concluded with a message of condolence and support to families of the victims, the people of Benue State, and the nation at large, praying for strength and resilience amid the crisis.
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