By John Moses
Prominent Igbo socio-cultural body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has strongly condemned the recent massacre of over 100 civilians in Yelwata community, Benue State, calling on both state and federal authorities to act decisively to halt the cycle of violence.
In a statement released to the media, the organisation’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, described the killings as “callous, inhuman, and unacceptable,” adding that the night-time assault had led to widespread displacement and destruction of homes.
“Every human life is sacred—regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social status,” Dr Chukwu stated. “These repeated acts of ruthless mass violence defy the very fabric of peaceful coexistence in a multi-ethnic nation like Nigeria.”
Ohanaeze lamented the persistent failure of the government and security forces to contain the growing wave of armed attacks in Benue and other parts of the country. It warned that failure to address the crisis could have long-term repercussions for national stability and development.
The group called for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to resolving the conflict, including a national dialogue aimed at tackling the root causes of violence between farmers and herders.
“Ohanaeze urges the Benue State Government, the Federal Government, and relevant stakeholders to immediately begin constructive engagement to put an end to this needless carnage,” Chukwu said. “A sustainable solution must be found to halt the unending bloodshed and destruction in the region.”
