The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Monday paid a condolence visit to Benue State following the recent spate of violent attacks and killings, particularly in Yelwata and Dauda communities.
Addressing a gathering of government officials, traditional leaders, and affected residents in Makurdi, the First Lady condemned the killings as “heart-wrenching and unnecessary,” urging all parties to embrace peace and reconciliation.
“As a mother, I urge you all to bury any grievances and return to peaceful and cordial coexistence,” she said. “When there are disagreements, dialogue and patience remain the best solutions—not violence. The way of peace is the way of love, and love is the greatest power on earth.”
She emphasized that unity in diversity should be Nigeria’s strength rather than a source of division, and called for a renewed commitment to peace and development.
“Benue State is rightly called the food basket of the nation due to its rich and diverse agricultural output,” she noted. “The state has a significant role to play in national food security, and peace is key to unlocking that potential.”
In response to concerns raised by stakeholders, Senator Tinubu assured that their appeals would be conveyed to President Bola Tinubu and other relevant authorities. She also lauded the resilience of the people of Benue and pledged continued support through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
To that end, the First Lady presented a cheque of One Billion Naira (₦1 billion) to the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to support victims of the attacks and help them rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
Governor Alia, while receiving the First Lady, reiterated the urgent need for state and community policing to ensure swift responses to threats, improved intelligence gathering, and overall safety of residents.
“This underscores the urgent need for state and community policing,” he said. “We appreciate your compassion, empathy, and leadership through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which continues to inspire hope among our people.”
Also speaking, the Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, called on security agencies to take decisive action against armed herders responsible for the repeated attacks in the state.
“Their activities have crippled farming and displaced countless communities,” he said. “We urge the federal government to flush out these criminal elements and support the return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes and farmlands.”
He further appealed for government intervention in restoring normalcy and enhancing food production across affected communities.
