President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today met with traditional rulers, stakeholders, and political leaders in Makurdi, Benue State, during a condolence visit following the killing of over 200 people in recent attacks across communities. In a closed-door session that later opened to the media, Tinubu promised to transform the pain into a productive outcome, saying: “We are not here to bury. We are here to govern. We are not here to mourn endlessly, but to turn tragedy into prosperity.”
He proposed the establishment of a Benue Peace and Reconciliation Committee, which would include former governors, traditional rulers, respected elders, and representatives of non-indigenes. “Let us please find a way to form a committee of elders here, so we can sit together and resolve our differences. We must invest in peace,” he said. Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s diversity should be a strength and that all ethnic groups must learn to live together peacefully. “We are members of the same family living in the same house, just sleeping in different rooms,” he noted.
The President expressed frustration over the lack of arrests related to the attacks, calling on the police and security agencies to act immediately. “How many people have you arrested? I’ve been reading in the newspapers. Police, I hope your men are alert. I expect arrests,” he said directly to the Inspector General of Police, who was present. He also appealed to all political leaders to discourage the weaponization of conflict, saying: “When there is hatred and fighting, your enemies will triumph over you. But when there is love, peace, and prosperity, then we can enjoy life together.”
Calling on traditional rulers to help guide community conduct, Tinubu urged them to speak the truth to their people and support government peace efforts. “You know your people. I know that some of you can talk to them. Please support us. Work with us,” he said. He also stressed the sanctity of human life in a state deeply affected by farmer-herder clashes, saying: “The value of human life is greater than that of a cow.”
The President was accompanied by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, heads of the National Security Adviser’s office, the Inspector General of Police, and other top officials. He pledged continued federal support for Benue and assured stakeholders that his administration would treat every part of the country equally.
