Former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the latest round of violence in Benue State, which left dozens dead and several communities devastated.
In a statement released by his media office on Monday, Atiku expressed deep sorrow over the renewed attacks in Guma and Logo Local Government Areas of Benue State, where armed assailants reportedly stormed villages, killing residents, burning homes, and displacing hundreds.
“This senseless bloodshed in Benue is a grim reminder that our country is still grappling with insecurity that has made daily living a nightmare for many Nigerians,” Atiku said. “My heart goes out to the families of the victims, and I stand in solidarity with the people of Benue State in this difficult time.”
The killings, which occurred over the weekend, have been attributed to suspected herdsmen militias. Local sources claim that at least 40 people, including women and children, lost their lives, while many others sustained injuries.
Atiku described the violence as “barbaric and unacceptable in a democratic society,” and called on the federal government and security agencies to step up efforts to arrest the perpetrators and restore peace in the region.
“The government must go beyond mere rhetoric and take decisive action to stop these killings. The continued failure to protect lives and property not only emboldens criminals but also weakens the fabric of our nation,” he added.
Atiku also urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and humanitarian organizations to mobilize immediate support for displaced persons and survivors in affected communities.
He reiterated his long-standing call for state policing as a structural reform necessary to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity. “We must reimagine our security architecture to empower states and communities to protect themselves within the ambit of the law,” he said.
The recent killings have sparked fresh outrage across the country, with many calling for a more proactive and community-centered approach to tackling rural violence and intercommunal conflicts.
As tensions remain high in parts of Benue State, Atiku’s voice adds to the growing chorus of national leaders demanding urgent and sustained action to bring an end to the carnage.
