Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the violent attack in Yelwata, Benue State, that claimed the lives of many innocent citizens. He called on Nigerians to demand accountability from their leaders in the face of escalating insecurity.
In a statement posted on his X account on the night of June 14, Atiku expressed deep shock and sorrow over the attack, which left over 100 residents feared dead. The former vice president emphasized that these killings, targeting vulnerable communities, exemplify the growing insecurity crisis across Nigeria.
“I am deeply anguished and shocked by the devastating news of the fresh attacks in Benue State, where over 100 innocent lives are feared lost. These killings, once again targeting defenseless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation,” Atiku said.
He further highlighted the emotional toll on the victims’ families, including the orphaned children, displaced individuals, and widowed spouses, saying that their pain could not be fully expressed in words.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and communities who have suffered unimaginable loss. As a nation, we must pause and reflect on the mounting human toll of this senseless violence,” he added.
Atiku urged the Federal Government and Benue State authorities to promptly launch a transparent investigation into the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also called for increased security in the region to protect vulnerable communities.
“Enhance security presence in the region, deploying necessary resources, personnel, equipment, and intelligence to guarantee the protection of vulnerable rural areas,” Atiku said.
Additionally, Atiku advocated for dialogue with affected communities, involving traditional leadership and civil society to rebuild trust and foster resilience. He called for swift compensation and support efforts, including medical aid, trauma counselling, and livelihood restoration for survivors and bereaved families.
“This assault on innocent Nigerians is not just a local tragedy; it is a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action,” he declared. “I call on all Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion, to unite in condemning this atrocity.”
Yelwata Attack: A Deepening Crisis
On Saturday, June 14, 2025, armed assailants, believed to be herders, invaded the Yelwata community, leaving scores of residents feared dead. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation across the country.
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the killing of innocent citizens by suspected herders and reiterated that nothing could justify the loss of lives.
“The loss of life is a tragedy, and nothing should ever justify such an act,” Governor Alia said in a statement on Sunday, June 15.
Angry Youths Protest in Makurdi
On Sunday, June 15, 2025, a group of angry youths in Benue State staged a protest against the killings in Yelwata. The protesters gathered at the Wurukum food basket roundabout in Makurdi, demanding action from the state and federal governments.
One of the protesters, Solomon Amande, expressed frustration at the perceived inaction of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. He criticized their silence in the wake of the killings, which affected children, women, and the elderly.
“We are angry because of the deafening silence from the President and the Governor. Children, women, and the elderly have been killed, and no one is taking action,” Amande said.
Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode, attempted to address the protesters, but his efforts were met with resistance. The protesters demanded that Governor Alia personally address them. Tensions escalated as security agents intervened, using tear gas to disperse the crowd.
National Response and Call for Action
In the wake of the attack, Atiku reiterated his call for urgent action to prevent further bloodshed and address the root causes of the country’s rising insecurity. He expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and urged all Nigerians to work together to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for future generations.
“We must hold our leaders accountable and insist on sustainable solutions to the violent tragedies claiming lives across the country,” Atiku emphasized.