Akume Parleys with Royal Father to Address Benue Killings
In a bid to address the lingering security challenges in Benue State, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has held a high-level meeting with the paramount traditional rulers of the state.
The meeting, which took place in Benue State, is part of the federal government’s Continued efforts to restore peace and security in the region.
According to a statement by the director of information in the SGF office, Segun Imohiosen, the meeting was held at the instance of President Bola Tinubu, who has directed the constitution of a strategic peace committee to address the root causes of violence in Benue State.
The committee, which will be led by the SGF, is expected to chart a path towards lasting reconciliation and stability in the state.
During the meeting, Senator Akume described the recent incidents of violence in Benue State as “heartbreaking” and reiterated the President’s resolve to end the senseless killings in the state, which is often referred to as the “food basket of the nation”.
He appealed to the traditional rulers to remain vigilant and report any breaches of peace to the authorities, assuring them that the President would not disappoint them.
The inclusion of the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty, Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, in the process is a recognition of the important role traditional institutions play in conflict resolution, community dialogue, and peacebuilding.
In their remarks, the two monarchs commended President Tinubu for his recent visit to the state, where he physically assessed the situation, and assured the federal government of their full support and commitment to peace efforts. They also called on all Benue communities to give peace a chance and cooperate with the proposed peace committee once it is inaugurated.
The proposed peace committee, led by the SGF, has commenced consultations immediately, with a mandate to recommend actionable solutions to end the attacks in Benue State.
The committee’s efforts are expected to complement the ongoing security operations in the state and pave the way for lasting peace and stability.
The meeting is seen as a significant step towards addressing the security challenges in Benue State, which has been plagued by violence and killings in recent times. With the federal government’s commitment to finding a lasting solution to the crisis, hopes are high that the state will soon return to its former glory as a peaceful and prosperous region.
