Benue State Grapples with Yelewata Massacre: A Community in Mourning

The Yelewata community in Benue State is reeling from a recent, devastating attack. In a recent interview, Jimin Geoffrey, former Senior Special Assistant on Media to the former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, and a local political figure, shed light on the tragic event. According to Geoffrey, suspected herdsmen launched an unprovoked attack on the Guma Local Government Area community, resulting in the massacre of over 200 citizens.

Geoffrey emphasised the immense scale of the tragedy, noting that the death toll is likely underestimated as many residents remain missing. He explained that Yelewata had become a haven for internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking refuge in warehouses and stores due to ongoing insecurity. The attackers targeted these shelters, trapping and killing many.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s recent engagement with stakeholders and a 14-day ultimatum issued to Fulani herdsmen by traditional rulers to leave the land, Geoffrey claims that armed herders continue to graze cattle openly across the state. He criticised the lack of additional security measures in Yelewata following the massacre, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of the community.

Geoffrey also addressed the politicisation of security issues in Benue State. He pointed out that politicians often manipulate such situations for their gain. Referencing President Tinubu’s past statements on security responsibility, Geoffrey urged him to take decisive action to halt the killings. He further asserted that the presence of herdsmen in the area is widely known, questioning the government’s and security forces’ apparent inaction.

Finally, Geoffrey critiqued Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, particularly regarding its handling of the security crisis. He argued that the governor needs to openly communicate the reality of the situation in Benue State without fear of reprisal. Geoffrey implied that Alia’s silence may be hindering effective solutions. This is a sombre reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the people of Benue State and calls for urgent action to address the deteriorating security situation.