President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured the people of Benue State that his administration is committed to restoring peace and protecting lives, following a recent wave of killings carried out by armed bandits and terrorists in parts of the state.
Edotoday reports that, during his condolence visit on Wednesday, Tinubu met with community leaders, government officials, and residents who have been directly affected by the violence, particularly in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, and neighboring communities along the Benue-Nasarawa corridor.
Speaking with deep emotion, the President declared that the value of human life is far greater than that of cows, a statement that struck a chord with many in a state long plagued by farmer-herder conflicts.
“The value of human life is greater than that of a cow. We are here to govern, not to bury,” Tinubu said.
He noted that Nigerians are tired of mass burials and violence, and urged everyone—regardless of background or political affiliation—to unite in safeguarding the nation’s future. “We want to hand over to the generation yet unborn,” he added, calling for collective responsibility in ending bloodshed.
The President also urged the people of Benue to work with security agencies, local leaders, and the federal government to restore stability in the region. He emphasized that fighting insecurity cannot be left to the government alone, and that lasting peace requires the cooperation of all citizens.
As part of his efforts to build a framework for peace, Tinubu announced the creation of a Committee of Elders made up of former governors of Benue and the current governor of Nasarawa State. This committee, he said, would serve as a body to facilitate high-level dialogue and develop practical strategies for reconciliation and safety.
In a directive to Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, Tinubu urged him to act as a father figure to all communities, regardless of political or ethnic divides. He stressed the importance of inclusive leadership and urged the governor to engage with stakeholders across all fronts.
Tinubu also addressed the root causes of the violence, specifically the ongoing farmer-herder crisis, which has fueled repeated clashes over the years. He called on the state government to provide land for ranching, describing it as a realistic and peaceful solution that would reduce conflict and encourage agricultural stability.
The President ended his visit with a passionate appeal to traditional rulers and grassroots leaders to support peace-building efforts and work closely with the government. He acknowledged their influence in their communities and encouraged them to become key players in reconciliation and conflict resolution.
The visit comes in the wake of renewed attacks in Benue State, where dozens of lives have been lost in recent weeks. Many residents welcomed the President’s remarks, describing his words as timely and necessary, while also hoping that action will quickly follow.
While the condolence visit was brief, the message was clear: the federal government recognizes the suffering of the people of Benue and is ready to work toward lasting peace—one rooted in justice, cooperation, and the preservation of human life.
