16 June 2025

The escalating violence in Benue State, Nigeria, has reached a critical point, prompting a passionate plea from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for immediate government intervention. In a statement posted on X, Atiku condemned the relentless bloodshed that has left communities shattered and families grieving, accusing authorities of responding with indifference and brutality.

“For years, families have buried their loved ones in silence, villages have been ravaged, and communities shattered, while those in power watch from a distance, offering nothing but hollow assurances,” Atiku wrote. He highlighted the dire situation where residents live in constant fear, unable to farm or raise their children without the threat of violence.

The crisis has driven desperate citizens to protest, only to be met with tear gas and force. Atiku described this response as “cruelty” and a “betrayal of the sacred duty of leadership,” questioning how a government can justify meeting cries for safety with aggression. “What kind of government meets a cry for safety with the barrel of a gun and a canister of gas?” he asked.

Atiku’s statement also pointed to a broader national issue, noting similar violence in states like Plateau, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Taraba. He urged leaders at both federal and state levels to act decisively, working with security agencies to deploy resources and develop a security framework that prioritises human lives. “Stop offering condolences and start offering solutions,” he demanded.

Calling on Nigerians to raise their voices and demand accountability, Atiku warned that history would judge those who prioritise power over people harshly. “The time to act is now,” he concluded.

The situation in Benue remains tense, with no immediate response from the government to Atiku’s call. As the nation watches, the cries of Benue’s people echo a growing demand for justice and protection across Nigeria.