In a scathing remark during a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, the Tor Tiv and Chairman of the Benue State Traditional Council, James Ayatse, accused some politicians in the state of exploiting the ongoing security crisis for political gain. The meeting, which took place in Makurdi, came after the tragic Yelewata massacre, where over 59 lives were claimed by violence.
Ayatse’s comments focused on the alleged politicisation of the crisis, a situation he described as worsening under the influence of certain political figures. He claimed these individuals would rather see the conflict escalate to justify the declaration of a state of emergency in the region. “We hear that there are some politicians who would even prefer that the crisis worsens so that it will be a basis for a declaration of a state of emergency in Benue State,” Ayatse said, condemning their actions as being against the interests of the people.
The traditional ruler further criticised the narratives surrounding the violence in the region, which are often misrepresented. He emphasized that what is unfolding in Benue should not be labelled as mere “herders-farmers clashes” or “communal conflicts.” Instead, he described the situation as a “calculated, well-planned, full-scale genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign” orchestrated by herder-terrorists and bandits, which has escalated over decades.
“We are dealing with something far more sinister than we often admit,” Ayatse said, underscoring the need for the federal government to recognise the true nature of the crisis in Benue.
President Tinubu’s Visit
President Tinubu’s visit to Benue on June 18, 2025, marked an important step in addressing the state’s security situation. The President arrived at the Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Air Force Base, Makurdi, before heading to visit victims of the Yelewata attack. The President expressed sympathy for the victims during his hospital visit and subsequently convened a high-level stakeholder meeting at the Benue State Government House.
The meeting, which was attended by prominent figures, including Governor Hyacinth Alia and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, aimed to discuss lasting solutions to the ongoing violence in the state. The state government had declared a public holiday in honour of the President’s visit.
Call for Peace and Action
During the meeting, Ayatse appealed to President Tinubu to take decisive action in curbing the violence and ensuring the safety of the people of Benue. He highlighted the sacrifices the state had made to uphold national unity, referencing the loss of lives during the Nigerian Civil War. “Why should we be treated like this?” Ayatse asked, urging the President to end the ongoing genocide in the state.
“The farmers have been chased out of their farms. There is hunger; there is a food insecurity challenge,” Ayatse added, calling for peace to enable the people of Benue to return to their farms and continue food production.
Broader Implications and Security Challenges
As part of a broader consultation, the meeting aimed at finding solutions to the widespread insecurity that has plagued several communities across Benue. The ongoing violence has been exacerbated by criminal elements, including bandits and terrorists, whose actions have left many families displaced and in dire need of assistance.
As Benue continues to face severe insecurity, the call for action grows louder, with hopes pinned on both state and federal authorities to address the root causes of the violence and bring lasting peace to the region.