President Bola Tinubu announced plans for a peace committee, including traditional rulers, to end the persistent violence in Benue State following a recent attack

The Benue Peace Initiative has gained momentum as President Bola Tinubu announced plans on Wednesday to establish a dedicated peace committee.

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This committee aims to bring an end to the long standing violence that has plagued Benue State, following a recent attack in the Yelwata community which reportedly claimed over 200 lives. President Tinubu is keen to find a lasting solution to the unrest.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Makurdi, the President revealed that the committee would include prominent traditional rulers.

The Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma will both serve on this body, alongside other key leaders from the region. Tinubu expressed his personal commitment to resolving the conflict.

He articulated his vision for the committee, stating, “I will want us to create this leadership committee now and then we meet in Abuja to really fashion out the nucleus for a lasting peace, and I’m ready to invest in that peace.”

He reiterated his determination to find a resolution. “And I want the traditional rulers, Tor Tiv and Ochidoma to be included in this peace committee. I think by now you will be bored of hearing my voice, but I give you the assurance, we will find peace, we will convert this tragedy to prosperity.”

Earlier in the day, the President visited victims of the Yelwata attack at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.

During his visit, he expressed significant concern over the rising death toll and the alarming lack of arrests made in connection with the violence.

He issued a strong warning to security agencies, urging them to act swiftly and decisively against the perpetrators.

President Tinubu directly challenged the security apparatus. “Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals.”

He acknowledged the efforts of the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, but pressed for more action.

“Christopher, you have given much. I watch your comments, you can’t be tired of staying in the bush. Oloyede and the Air Marshal, we thank all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground, let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out. DG NIA, DG SSS, retool your information channels, and let’s have tangible intelligence so that this will not occur again.”

He also made a broader appeal for unity among Nigerians, urging citizens to focus their collective energy on defeating common enemies rather than engaging in internal strife.

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The meeting saw the attendance of Governor Hyacinth Alia, several North Central governors, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, various service chiefs, and other traditional and political leaders.