The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has expressed strong disapproval of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu's recent statements that downplayed the severity of attacks in Benue State and other parts of Nigeria.

In a statement issued by MBF spokesman Luka Binniyat, the forum criticized Ribadu for characterizing the violent incidents as merely part of a global trend during his condolence visit to Benue State Governor Father Hyacinth Alia.

"The Middle Belt Forum is deeply concerned by the comments made by the National Security Adviser during his recent condolence visit to Benue State Governor, following the horrific attacks by armed men identified as Fulani herdsmen," the statement read.

The MBF expressed particular concern over Ribadu's denial of territorial control by armed groups in Nigeria, which they described as contradicting well-documented realities. According to the forum, numerous communities in Benue State remain under occupation by armed Fulani militants who have violently displaced the original inhabitants.

"This denial flies in the face of evidence. In Benue State alone, where Ribadu made these claims, many communities remain under the occupation of armed Fulani militants who violently displaced the original inhabitants. Similar situations persist across parts of Southern Kaduna, Plateau, Niger, Kebbi, Sokoto, Katsina, and Zamfara states," the forum stated.

The MBF questioned the basis of the NSA's assessment, describing his remarks as "not only inaccurate but callous," especially considering the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in what they termed "subhuman conditions."

The forum also raised concerns about the ongoing "North Central Workshop on Developing a National Framework on Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration" being organized in Makurdi under the NSA's office. They referenced Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State's amnesty program for "repentant" terrorists in Birnin Gwari last year, which they claimed was developed in collaboration with the NSA's office.

"We suspect that the ongoing workshop may align with the Kaduna model, which had no consideration for the victims and has no space for justice," the MBF stated.

The forum offered several recommendations, including ensuring that perpetrators of violence face justice rather than simply surrendering weapons and walking free. They also advocated for supporting communities under siege by helping them legally procure light weapons and train youth volunteers under proper supervision.

Additionally, the MBF reiterated its call for the establishment of State Police, as well as Local Government and Ward Police structures, arguing that "security must be localised to be effective."

The forum concluded by calling for "serious, responsible, and empathetic governance" that reflects the pain and suffering of affected communities, urging the NSA to "offer leadership that reassures victims not pamper terrorists."