The streets of Makurdi erupted in anger on Sunday as hundreds of outraged youths staged massive protests in response to the latest gruesome killings by suspected armed herdsmen in Benue State. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, June 14, in Yeluwata, Guma Local Government Area, claimed over 200 lives, including women, children, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) taking refuge in the area.
The demonstrators, visibly emotional and carrying placards reading “Stop Benue Killings” and “Government Has Failed Us,” converged at the busy Wurukum Roundabout and blocked major roads. For nearly five hours, they resisted efforts by top state officials, including Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode and Commissioner of Police Emenari Ifeanyi, to clear the area. Bonfires were set, and some protesters even attempted to cook on the tarmac in a defiant display of frustration and despair.
VDM Calms Tensions
The protest was eventually de-escalated following the intervention of popular social media activist Martins Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). After visiting the site of the massacre, VDM appealed to the protesters to clear the roads and instead organize future demonstrations through lawful and peaceful channels. His message struck a chord, and the protesters dispersed peacefully.
Widespread Condemnation
The massacre has drawn swift and widespread condemnation across political, religious, and civil society groups:
President Bola Tinubu labeled the killings as “inhuman and anti-progress,” ordering security forces to apprehend and prosecute all perpetrators regardless of their affiliations. He also called for restraint in public discourse and urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to foster reconciliation.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his deputy, visited the devastated community and promised a stronger collaboration with federal security agencies and community leaders to address the crisis.
Benue Police Commissioner Ifeanyi confirmed that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has taken direct control of the security situation in the state and deployed special forces to troubled areas.
Peter Obi, former presidential candidate, described the attack as a result of “leadership failure” and called for “comprehensive and deliberate action” beyond sympathy.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar urged unity and accountability, demanding that government officials act decisively to prevent future massacres.
HURIWA (Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria) issued a strong statement demanding the immediate sack of all underperforming security chiefs, warning of looming ethnic conflict if decisive action isn’t taken.
Pope Leo XIV, during a Sunday address, led prayers for the slain and condemned the massacre, especially the killing of IDPs who were being sheltered by a local Catholic mission.
Amnesty International Nigeria urged authorities to end the carnage and ensure justice for the victims.
Fear Spreads to Nasarawa
The violence has spilled into neighboring areas. Communities in Kadarko and Tiv settlements in Nasarawa State have reported mass desertions, with residents fleeing their homes in fear of reprisal attacks. Farmers in the region said they were forced into the bushes after hearing sustained gunfire during the Yeluwata massacre.
“We’re no longer sure if this country can protect us,” one displaced farmer lamented. “We live each day not knowing if we’ll survive the next.”
A Call for Urgent Action
The Benue tragedy is a chilling reminder of Nigeria’s unresolved security challenges, particularly the farmer-herder crisis that has claimed thousands of lives over the years. It also raises critical questions about the capacity—and willingness—of state and federal authorities to protect vulnerable communities.
As calls for justice grow louder, the people of Benue State, and indeed many Nigerians, are left hoping this moment sparks not just another round of condemnations, but real, lasting solutions.
