Akume condemns Benue killings, calls for united front against insecurity

George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), has condemned the recent killings in Benue state.

In a statement on Monday by Terrence Kuanum, his special adviser on public affairs, Akume described the killings as a “mindless barbarism”.

Akume expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu’s directive to service chiefs to restore peace in Benue would yield the desired results.

He emphasised the need for an immediate end to such “dastardly acts” across the country, adding that insecurity must be confronted through collective action.

The SGF called on residents not to be afraid, but to work closely with security agencies to reclaim their communities from violent elements.

Akume, who commiserated with the families of the victims and survivors of the attack, urged political, religious and traditional leaders to unite to end all forms of insecurity in Benue and across the country.

“It is totally unacceptable that over 200 innocent persons will have their lives cut short in such cruel manner,” the statement reads.

“As a former state governor, I understand the complexities involved in combating insecurity.

“I call on all political, religious and traditional leaders to unite in the effort to end all forms of insecurity, not just in Benue state, but across Nigeria.”

On Saturday morning, gunmen launched an attack on Yelewata, a community in Guma LGA of Benue, killing many residents and leaving others severely injured.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said more than 100 people have been killed, with 6,527 displaced following the attack.

On Sunday, Tinubu directed security agencies to arrest perpetrators of the attacks and avoid utterances that could heighten tension in the state.