Gov Sule Denies Link to Yelewata Attack, Says Nasarawa Not a Criminal Hideout  

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has firmly rejected claims that criminal elements, particularly suspected herdsmen responsible for the recent attack in Yelwata community of Benue State, found refuge in his state after carrying out the deadly raid.

The attack, which led to the deaths of several residents in Yelewata, a border town between Benue and Nasarawa sparked concerns over the porous inter-state boundary and alleged complicity of neighboring communities.

However, appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Governor Sule dismissed such narratives as unfounded and misleading.

“There is nothing like harbouring criminals in Nasarawa. We don’t even have enough Fulanis to say we are harbouring anybody,” Sule stated emphatically. “Nasarawa is not known for cattle-related activities like dairies. We have our own internal security challenges, so we are not interested in importing more problems.”

He noted that the misconception about Nasarawa being a launchpad or escape route for attackers targeting Benue State has existed for years, predating his administration.

“Unfortunately, in 2019, I inherited a frosty relationship between my predecessor and Governor Samuel Ortom, largely due to these accusations. One of my early actions was to reach out to Governor Ortom to foster dialogue and find lasting solutions,” Sule recounted.

He emphasized that rather than being a haven for lawlessness, Nasarawa State has been actively working with security agencies and neighboring states to improve surveillance and maintain peace across the region.

The governor’s comments come amid growing tension following the Yelwata killings, with residents calling for justice and tighter security.

As investigations continue, both Benue and Nasarawa governments face mounting pressure to strengthen border security and prevent further bloodshed.