Benue Bloodshed Intolerable, Unity Is the Way Forward — SGF Akume

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has strongly condemned the ongoing killings across Benue State, describing them as senseless, economically motivated, and deeply wounding to the nation’s soul.

In a statement issued on Monday, June 16, in Abuja, Akume lamented the resurgence of violent attacks in Benue, insisting that the perpetrators are not acting on religious grounds but are rather driven by economic motives.

“This latest reprehensible act — one among too many — is not merely a tragedy for Benue; it is a deep wound to the soul of our nation,” Akume said. “These killings are economically deterministic, not religiously driven.”

He noted that the current wave of violence is not isolated to Benue alone, citing similar patterns in Plateau and Zamfara states.

Akume mourned the loss of innocent lives, including men, women, and children, and called on all Benue indigenes, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to urgently unite and pursue lasting peace and security in the region.

“We must rise above division and act decisively to protect our people and preserve our future,” he urged.

The SGF commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swiftly directing security agencies to carry out full operations aimed at flushing out the attackers and bringing justice to the victims.

He added that the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has also provided relief to affected communities, while additional troops have been deployed to restore order.

“As a son of the soil and a key stakeholder, I will not relent in consulting, mobilizing, and coordinating all necessary efforts to find and implement a durable solution — not just for Benue, but for all other affected states,” Akume assured.

Emphasizing the sanctity of human life, Akume appealed for interfaith and communal harmony, stating, “Any single life lost offends the sensibility of God Almighty. All of us must live as brothers and sisters in peace and harmony.”

He concluded with heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and people of Benue, assuring them of unwavering support and justice: “In this dark hour, we stand with you. And we will not rest until justice speaks — loudly, clearly, and without delay.”

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