By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
In a compelling press statement, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and former governor of Benue state has condemned the recent killings in Yelewata and other affected communities, describing them as “senseless acts of violence” and “a direct challenge to the peace and stability of our nation.”
Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, Akume said the Federal Government, under President Tinubu’s leadership, has vehemently condemned the brutal killings in Benue and the North East, describing these acts as an affront to human dignity and a serious threat to national peace and stability.
Akume stated that these barbaric attacks, especially the loss of innocent lives is a tragedy that calls for collective grief and urgent action.” He. extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of victims, emphasizing the need for urgent and collective action in other to curb violence and restore peace in the region.
He appreciated President Tinubu’s decisive response, including the deployment of a high-level delegation and the announcement of his personal visit scheduled for Wednesday, 18th June,2025. “This demonstrates his hands-on leadership and genuine empathy for our affected communities,” Akume said, highlighting the importance of proactive engagement in addressing insecurity.
Ahead of the visit, Akume revealed he has been tasked with leading a team comprising top security officials and members of the National Assembly to assess the situation on the ground, underscoring the administration’s commitment to restoring peace.
“Tinubu’s upcoming visit to Benue State, followed the recent tragic attacks that have shaken the region.Following his directive to dispatch a high-level security and legislative delegation led by Akume. The team will include the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser, heads of intelligence agencies, and key National Assembly members to assess the situation firsthand
Akume emphasized the President’s unwavering commitment to the security and welfare of Nigerians, calling the upcoming visit “a clear testament to his hands-on leadership and empathy for the plight of the affected communities.”
Akume spoke passionately about the toll the violence has taken on the region, from disrupted livelihoods to the displacement of families and destruction of farmlands. He stressed the urgent need for a united response to stem the tide of bloodshed and restore order.
“President Tinubu’s administration is fully committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice,” he said, urging security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering and deepen collaboration with local communities.
During the visit, Tinubu is also expected to hold a town hall meeting with local stakeholders, aimed at fostering dialogue and developing actionable solutions to end the violence. Akume highlighted the importance of such engagements in addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“The economic implications of insecurity cannot be overstated,” he warned. “Agricultural disruption, halted trade, and displacement only worsen poverty and food insecurity, with national consequences.”
Also Akume, a former Senate Minority Leader, emphasized the need for legislative-executive synergy to tackle insecurity effectively, adding that the Tinubu administration will continue to work closely with the National Assembly and state governments.
Commending the resilience of Benue residents and communities across the North East, he urged Nigerians to remain steadfast, vigilant, and cooperative with security forces.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” Akume concluded. “We must all unite in support of the Federal Government’s efforts and remain committed to restoring peace across our land.”
President Tinubu’s visit is widely seen as a pivotal moment in the government’s strategy to end violence in the region and restore confidence in national security systems.
