In a bold move aimed at ending the cycle of violence that has plagued Benue State for years, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has initiated peace talks with traditional rulers and community leaders across the region.
The Benue killings, characterized by violent clashes between herders and farmers, have claimed thousands of lives over the last decade and displaced countless others. Despite several government interventions, the crisis has continued to fester, fuelled by ethnic tensions, land disputes, and political instability.
Now, with tensions once again escalating in communities like Guma, Logo, and Agatu, Akume—a son of the soil and a respected political figure in Benue—has stepped in with a new approach: grassroots dialogue.
At a peace summit held in Makurdi on Saturday, Akume met with over 30 traditional rulers from Tiv, Idoma, and other ethnic communities, emphasizing the importance of unity, reconciliation, and nonviolent conflict resolution. Speaking at the event, he said:
“The blood of our people has flowed for far too long. No development can happen in the midst of violence. We must begin to talk, to listen, and to forgive. As custodians of our culture and values, our traditional rulers hold the key to lasting peace.”
The monarchs, many of whom have witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by the conflict, welcomed Akume’s intervention. Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Prof. James Ayatse, pledged full cooperation and urged other leaders to rally their people toward peace.
“We cannot allow our land to become a graveyard of unfulfilled dreams. The youth are watching. If we do not act now, history will judge us harshly.” The Tor Tiv said.
The peace initiative also includes plans for localized truth and reconciliation forums, deployment of community peace committees, and renewed pressure on security agencies to act decisively against criminal elements exploiting the crisis.
However, skepticism remains among some displaced families and activists who argue that peace talks without justice may not be enough. “We welcome dialogue, but what about the people who lost their homes, their farms, and their families?” asked Miriam Tersoo, a community organizer in Tse-Ukpa.
In response, Akume assured that the peace process will not ignore justice and restitution. He revealed that the Federal Government is considering a special rehabilitation fund for victims of violence in Benue and neighboring states.
As the talks continue across zones of conflict, hopes are cautiously rising that this may finally mark a turning point in Benue’s long and painful journey toward peace.
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