A poignant scene unfolded during President Bola Tinubu's visit to a hospital in Benue State, where survivors of the recent massacre are receiving treatment. A survivor, overcome with grief, turned away in anguish as the President visited the hospital. This survivor had lost over 200 family members and loved ones in the brutal attack by armed herdsmen in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
The attack, which occurred on June 13, 2025, left deep scars on the survivors and the community. Many houses were set ablaze, and scores of people were killed, including women and children. The survivor who turned away in grief during the President's visit is one of the many who are still struggling to come to terms with the trauma.
Survivor's Account
Michael Ajah, a survivor, shared his harrowing experience, saying, "My people, 11 of my family members died in this house, eight died in the other store, and some died here. My family members, 20 in number, died in the attack." He also lost his belongings, including food and clothes, which were burnt during the attack ¹ ².
President Tinubu's Visit
President Tinubu's visit to the hospital was seen as a gesture of solidarity with the survivors and the affected communities. However, some critics argue that more needs to be done to address the security challenges in the state. The President has ordered the security chiefs to coordinate operations to restore order and protect the lives of the people.
Calls for Action
The massacre has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for decisive action to address the insecurity in Benue State and other parts of the country. The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has urged the federal government to take urgent and effective measures to restore peace and security in the state. The Senate has also expressed frustration over the frequent massacres and called for immediate action to address the security crisis ² ¹.
Conclusion
The Benue massacre is a stark reminder of the insecurity plaguing Nigeria. As the government and security agencies work to restore order, it is essential to prioritize the needs of the survivors and the affected communities. The international community, including the United Nations, has condemned the attacks and called for justice for the victims ³.
