Amid escalating security concerns in Benue State, Gideon Dooyum Inyom, a strategic innovation consultant and former senatorial aspirant, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to conduct an immediate and independent investigation into a “terror corridor” that facilitates ongoing attacks on farming communities along the Benue–Nasarawa border.
Inyom, a Harvard Kennedy School-certified professional and convener of the #NoLimitsIDG platform, emphasised that symbolic gestures are no longer sufficient following the president‘s recent visit to Benue. He said that decisive federal intervention is now essential for justice and the protection of lives.
Expressing frustration with the incomplete briefings provided to the president regarding the violence in areas like Yelwata, Guma, and Gwer-West, Inyom warned that such omissions jeopardise national security and the government‘s ability to respond effectively.
He asserts that many attacks on Benue communities originate from Nasarawa State, where well-armed militia groups cross the border to commit violence before retreating. This situation has persisted for too long, and Inyom highlighted the urgent need for a thorough investigation into Nasarawa‘s involvement.
Criticising the president‘s suggestion for governors to „liaise,“ he argued that past discussions have failed to halt the killings, calling instead for an impartial investigation with clear directives from the highest levels of government.
Inyom also pointed out the lack of emphasis on enforcing the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, designed to address the herder-farmer conflict. He lamented the federal government‘s lack of support for this vital legislation.
Despite his criticisms, Inyom praised the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Professor James Ayatse, for his candidness during the president‘s visit, reaffirming the need for unity among all stakeholders in Benue.
He vowed that the #NoLimitsIDG movement would intensify its advocacy for accountability and protection, re-submitting its demands to the president and relevant authorities. Inyom underscored the ongoing violence in Benue as a national emergency that warrants urgent attention, reminding all that justice is a right, not a favour.
