President's Visit to Benue: A Historic Gesture Amid Crisis
Last night in Yellow Water, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, history was made. Mr. President, in the annals of our state’s existence, you are the first sitting president to visit us under such challenging circumstances. Your decision to not only come but also meet with those affected by the crisis is deeply appreciated. We thank you sincerely.
Even as we mourn, we recognize and commend the many positive things you have done for Benue State. Notably, we thank you for appointing sons and daughters of Benue into key positions within your administration. Allow me to highlight the appointment of His Excellency Senator Dr. George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and that of Engineer Professor Joseph Utsev as the Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation. We also recognize the many others you have appointed — and those we trust you will continue to appoint — from Benue State.
We appreciate the development projects your administration has approved and that are ongoing in our state. We are also grateful for the strong, cordial relationship and support you have extended to the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Reverend Father Dr. Hyacinth Alia — a people-oriented leader. Together, you are rewriting the narrative of governance in Benue.
However, Your Excellency, allow me to express two grave concerns that weigh heavily on our hearts.
1. Misrepresentation of the Benue Crisis
There is growing apprehension over the persistent mischaracterization of the security situation in Benue State. This is not a case of herder-farmer clashes. It is not communal violence, reprisal attacks, or minor skirmishes. The real situation is a deliberate, well-coordinated campaign of genocidal violence and land grabbing carried out by terrorist herders and bandits. This has been ongoing for decades and is escalating.
Wrong diagnosis leads to wrong treatment. Telling our people to "tolerate," "negotiate peace," or "learn to live with your neighbors" misses the point entirely. What is happening in Benue is a war — a brutal, calculated assault on our people. We are not just seeking harmony — we are seeking survival.
2. Politicization of the Crisis
The second issue is the politicization of this tragedy. Unfortunately, some politicians in the state appear to be exploiting the crisis for political gain rather than working together for solutions. We have heard disturbing reports that certain individuals would rather see the crisis worsen to justify a declaration of a state of emergency in Benue. This is deeply unfortunate. Any politician who wishes for more deaths just to advance their agenda stands against the will and welfare of the people of Benue.
A Passionate Appeal
Your Excellency, Benue State has made great sacrifices for this country. During the civil war, many of our people paid the ultimate price to keep Nigeria united. Why, then, are we being treated this way?
This massacre — the one you've come to commiserate with us over — is just one of many that have afflicted us. What has Benue done to deserve this? We appeal to you, as our President, to end the genocide and restore security in Benue and across Nigeria. We believe in your courage, your clarity, and your commitment. You've taken bold steps where others have hesitated — on fuel subsidy, exchange rates, and other national issues. You can also bring peace to Benue.
All we ask, sir, is this: stop the bloodshed. Give us peace. Our people, mostly farmers, have been driven off their land. Hunger and food insecurity are real and growing. Benue is the food basket of the nation — help us go back to farming and continue to feed Nigeria.
We’ve heard stories of how you intervened in crisis situations like the one in Kwara State, especially in Kaiama, and brought peace. We know you can do the same for us.
As the paramount ruler of the Tiv nation, I also appeal on behalf of our people in Nasarawa State — particularly in Keana, Awe, Obi, and other local governments — who have been dispossessed of their ancestral lands. Many now face discrimination, being labeled as "settlers" despite having lived there since before the 18th century. They are indigenous people and deserve justice and peace as well.
A Final Assurance
Your Excellency, the people of Benue do not vote based on religion or ethnicity. We vote based on merit, competence, and integrity. In 2023, we came out in large numbers to vote for you. That support still stands. Moving forward, expect even greater support from Benue State.
