The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has strongly denounced the brutal attacks that occurred over the weekend in Yelewata, a village in Benue State, North Central Nigeria, where scores of civilians were reportedly killed while asleep.
In a statement issued by his Deputy Spokesperson, Farhan Haq, the UN Chief emphasized the need for justice, stating: “The Secretary-General condemns the killing of innocent civilians, including in Nigeria and we hope that those responsible for this violence will be found and apprehended.”
Haq confirmed that the United Nations is actively observing the situation: “We’re monitoring the situation.”
According to local and international news sources, the coordinated assault on Yelewata left dozens dead and forced many residents to flee their homes.
The attack has drawn wide condemnation, with increasing calls for urgent security action in the region.
In Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also issued a statement expressing deep concern over the latest wave of violence in Benue.
He extended sympathies to the bereaved families and those displaced, urging a collective embrace of unity and reconciliation.
The President’s statement read: “We must come together in peace, love, and mutual understanding to end this cycle of violence.”
In a show of commitment, President Tinubu is scheduled to visit Benue State on Wednesday.
His visit aims to reinforce federal support for local peace efforts and to meet directly with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political figures, religious and community leaders, and youth organizations.
During the visit, the President is expected to seek lasting solutions to the recurring conflicts that have plagued several communities across the state.
The violent incident has also drawn reactions from across the country. Prominent voices, including musical artist M.I Abaga and religious leaders, have condemned the attacks.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Sultan of Sokoto have jointly issued statements urging the federal government to intensify its security response and protect vulnerable rural populations in Benue and other affected states.
In one of the reactions, M.I Abaga said he was mourning with the people of Benue and condemned the recurring bloodshed, aligning with broader public outcry over insecurity in the region.
