Massacre in Benue: Tinubu Vows Justice, Critics Demand Accountability
On or around June 18, 2025, at least 150 people were killed in an overnight attack on Yelewata in central Nigeria’s Benue State, allegedly by armed herdsmen, leaving the area displaced and devastated . President Bola Tinubu visited the state’s capital Makurdi and vowed to hunt down the perpetrators and restore peace, while reprimanding police for failing to make arrests .
🎯 Why This Is Important
Rising insecurity: Benue is one of many flashpoints in the long-running herder–farmer conflicts, which have displaced millions across the Middle Belt.
Leadership tested: Critics argue Tinubu’s response—restricted to speeches and faint blame—is inadequate without structural reform .
Call for action: Analysts warn Nigeria must address land disputes, strengthen rule of law, and reform security frameworks to stop the cycle of violence .
🔍 What You Should Know
Issue Stakeholders Concern
Insecurity Farmers vs. Herdsmen Access to grazing, ethnic tensions
Governance Tinubu & Security Chiefs Lack of arrests, weak deterrence
Accountability Victims & Civil Society Demand fair justice and protections
🛑 Call to Action
Pressure INEC & Parliament: Demand stronger land rights protections and legal frameworks to prevent future violence.
Engage local leaders: Encourage dialogue between farmers, herdsmen, and security agencies to defuse tensions.
Support displaced victims: Donate to reputable NGOs providing shelter, food, and trauma support in Benue.
Adedayo Obadina
Talksocialtalks
