The Federal Government has officially confirmed that over 200 people were killed in what it described as a "cruel and calculated" massacre in Benue State, directly contradicting Governor Hyacinth Alia's earlier claim that only 59 persons lost their lives in what he characterized as possible reprisal attacks.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made this revelation in a press statement released on Monday through his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum. The statement addressed the tragic killings in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area.
"Mindless Barbarism" - SGF Condemns Attacks
Akume described the attacks as "mindless barbarism" and "totally unacceptable," expressing horror at the scale of the violence.
"I am horrified by the scale of this attack. That over 200 human lives could be wiped out in such a cruel and calculated manner is an affront to our shared humanity," he stated.
The SGF extended condolences to bereaved families and survivors while emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to address the security crisis. He called on political, religious, and traditional leaders to "join forces and work collectively toward ending insecurity in Benue State and across Nigeria."
Conflicting Narratives
Governor Alia had earlier downplayed the casualty figures, claiming that only 59 persons died in what he suggested were reprisal attacks carried out by armed herders using known routes from neighboring Nasarawa State.
"What we're witnessing today, if someone describes it as reprisal attacks, we wouldn't entirely disagree," the governor was quoted as saying.
This characterization stands in stark contrast to the federal government's assessment of a deliberate massacre with a significantly higher death toll.
Call for Unity Against Insecurity
Drawing from his experience as a former governor of Benue State, Akume acknowledged the complex challenges associated with fighting insecurity but stressed the importance of unity.
"As a former governor, I understand the complex challenges associated with fighting insecurity. However, we must all stand together, regardless of our differences, to confront and defeat this evil," Akume said.
He expressed confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent directive to the Service Chiefs, urging swift action to restore peace.
"This is at the core of President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. We must not relent until every community is safe," he added.
The significant discrepancy in reported casualties raises serious questions about the transparency of information regarding the security situation in Benue State and highlights potential tensions between state and federal authorities in addressing the ongoing crisis.
Follow BenriNews on our social media platforms for more updates:
