Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to ending the spate of attacks and killings in Benue State, particularly in Guma Local Government Area (LGA).
During a condolence visit on Tuesday to the Yelewata community — the scene of the recent deadly assault — Senator Akume directly addressed the residents, expressing the President’s deep concern over the tragic events that claimed numerous lives and left properties in ruins.
The SGF, who hails from the state, expressed heartfelt sympathy to the victims of the June 13 attack, urging them to remain calm and resilient. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making concerted efforts to put a permanent end to the killings in Guma LGA and other parts of Benue,” Akume assured, emphasizing that the President shares in their grief and is actively working to enhance security across the region.
Senator Akume acknowledged that his visit was long overdue but explained that logistical constraints had delayed his arrival. He announced that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had already begun preparations to deliver essential relief materials to the affected community to ease their immediate suffering.
In a call for restraint, the SGF advised community members not to resort to vigilantism or retaliatory attacks, assuring them that the country’s security agencies are stepping up operations, increasing surveillance, and taking strategic measures to prevent further bloodshed.
Accompanying the SGF were other prominent lawmakers from the region, including the member representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, and Senator Titus Zam, who represents Benue North-West in the National Assembly. Both legislators condemned the gruesome killings and extended their condolences to bereaved families.
They praised Senator Akume’s role in facilitating the deployment of security forces to the region and reassured constituents that he remains a staunch advocate for peace and protection of lives.
A local political leader from Nyiev Council Ward, Mr. Matthew Mnyam, expressed gratitude for the SGF’s visit, describing it as a source of renewed hope for the community. He joined others in praying that such violent incidents would never recur.
The District Head of Nyiev, Zaki Bernard Shawa, also addressed the delegation, painting a grim picture of the security situation. He revealed that more than 100 lives had been lost in the days leading up to the June 13 attack, underscoring the urgency of government intervention.
Senator Akume’s visit and public assurances mark a significant step in the federal government’s response to the humanitarian and security crisis in Benue, as local leaders and residents await concrete actions to restore peace and stability to the troubled region.
