By John Moses
Former Nigerian Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the deadly assault on Yelwata, a rural community in Benue State, where over 100 civilians are feared to have been killed in one of the country’s most severe recent security incidents.
In a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku described the killings as “deeply anguishing” and symptomatic of Nigeria’s deteriorating security landscape.
“These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation,” he wrote, lamenting the grief and suffering endured by the bereaved and displaced.
He called on both the Federal Government and Benue State authorities to urgently launch a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, ensure justice for the victims, and bring the perpetrators to account.
“The sorrow of those orphaned, widowed, or driven from their homes cannot be captured in words,” Atiku said, stressing the need for increased security presence in vulnerable areas, including personnel deployment, equipment upgrades, and intelligence gathering.
He further urged authorities to work with local communities through traditional leaders and civil society organisations to rebuild trust, strengthen resilience, and promote peace.
Atiku also appealed for comprehensive support for victims, including trauma care, medical assistance, and economic recovery initiatives for families whose livelihoods have been destroyed.
Describing the incident as a “national emergency,” Atiku implored Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides to stand in unity and demand real solutions to the nationwide wave of violence.
“This is not merely a local tragedy—it is a challenge to our national conscience,” he concluded. “We must hold our leaders accountable, and together, reclaim peace and security for all Nigerians.”
