…Orders Governor Alia to Lead Reconciliation or Be Held Accountable
Abuja – June 15, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm directive to Nigeria’s security chiefs to fully implement his earlier orders aimed at restoring peace and security to Benue State following renewed cycles of violence and reprisal attacks.
In response to the latest round of deadly clashes that have claimed numerous lives, the President has mandated the intelligence community, the Nigeria Police Force, and the military to take immediate and coordinated action in the state. Senior security officials have since arrived in Benue to directly oversee operations on the ground, as part of efforts to stabilize affected communities and end the senseless killings.
President Tinubu also charged the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, with initiating a robust reconciliation process. He urged the governor to convene dialogue sessions among stakeholders — particularly farmers, herders, and local communities — to foster understanding, address grievances, and pave the way for lasting peace.
Describing the killings as “inhuman and anti-progress,” the President expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation. He called on political and traditional leaders within the state to refrain from making inflammatory remarks that could further escalate tensions.
“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough,” the President declared.
“I have directed the security agencies to act decisively, arrest the perpetrators of these evil acts — regardless of which side of the conflict they belong to — and ensure their prosecution. Political and community leaders must act responsibly. This is not the time for rhetoric that fuels division, but for leadership that heals wounds,” he added.
President Tinubu emphasized that Governor Alia must rise to the challenge of leadership by promoting a process of honest dialogue and reconciliation.
“This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue. Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across divides work together in harmony and address differences with fairness, openness, and justice,” the President stated.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to working with all stakeholders to end the cycle of violence in Benue and across the country.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy)
June 15, 2025
