Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, has broken his silence on the killings in his home state, expressing deep sorrow and condemnation over the recent killings in Yelewata, Benue State.
In a press statement issued on Monday, Akume mourned the victims of what he called another senseless tragedy in the region, reiterating the need for unity and decisive action to end the wave of violence affecting parts of the country.
“The continued bloodletting and mindless killings across Benue State are both disheartening and utterly condemnable,” Akume said. “This latest reprehensible act — one among too many — is not merely a tragedy for Benue; it is a deep wound to the soul of our nation.”
The SGF lamented that the violence, which has claimed countless innocent lives including women and children, is not confined to Benue alone.
He noted that Plateau and Zamfara States also continue to suffer similar atrocities. Contrary to popular belief, Akume argued that these killings are driven by economic factors, not religion.
“These killings are economic deterministic, not religious driven,” he stated firmly.
He called for urgent unity among the people of Benue — including community leaders, political figures, and traditional institutions — to chart a sustainable path to peace. “We must rise above division and act decisively to protect our people and preserve our future,” he urged.
The SGF extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swiftly ordering a full-scale security operation to fish out the perpetrators and restore order in the troubled areas.
He also acknowledged the intervention of the National Emergency Management Agency, which has begun providing relief, as well as the recent deployment of additional troops to stabilize the region.
READ ALSO: IGP leads forces to Benue after massive attack on villages
“As a son of the soil and a key stakeholder, I will not relent in consulting, mobilizing, and coordinating all necessary efforts to find and implement a durable solution,” Akume said. “I am doing the same for all other affected states.”
He appealed to Nigerians of all faiths — Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers — to uphold the sanctity of human life. “Any single life lost offends the sensibility of God Almighty,” he declared. “All of us must live as brothers and sisters in peace and harmony.”
Akume offered condolences to the families of the deceased and the people of Benue State. “In this dark hour, we stand with you,” he said. “And we will not rest until justice speaks — loudly, clearly, and without delay.”
He concluded with a solemn prayer: “May the souls of the faithfully departed rest in peace, and may peace return to the land of Benue.”
Crediblenewsng.com
