The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent killings in Yelwata community of Benue State, urging security agencies to reconsider their approach to handling violence in the region.
In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor T. A. Muhammad-Baba, the forum expressed deep concern over the violence that claimed numerous lives, including women, children, and elderly residents, on Friday, June 13, 2025.
"We pray for the repose of the souls of the dead, commiserate with the injured and wish them quick recovery," the statement read.
Security Strategy Under Scrutiny
The ACF described the attack as "gruesome" and "senseless," noting that the persistent violence between farmers and herders in the region continues to defy resolution attempts. The forum emphasized that these killings represent a serious threat to peace not only in the northern region but across Nigeria.
"The gruesome incident at Yelwata is only the latest in a cascading series of catastrophic violence, pitching farmers and herders, which dishearteningly seems to defy solutions, including decisive action by the Federal Government-controlled security agencies," the statement continued.
Particularly concerning to the ACF was the timing of the attack, which occurred just days after the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) relocated to Benue State specifically to address the security challenges in the area.
"That the Yelwata tragedy would take place within days of the COAS's relocation clearly illustrates that the current security strategy must be reviewed," the forum stated.
Call for Proactive Measures
The ACF has called for a new, more proactive approach to security in the region, emphasizing the need for enhanced vigilance and improved intelligence gathering to prevent violence before it erupts.
The forum urged residents of Benue and other violence-prone states to reject hatred and embrace peace, stating: "Let us replace fear and anger with empathy, understanding, cooperation, and reconciliation."
While commending Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State for his inclusive approach to peacebuilding, the ACF insisted that justice must prevail and those responsible for the killings should face consequences.
The statement also encouraged community and religious leaders to leverage their positions to promote peace and tolerance while discouraging violence and hate speech.
"May peace, understanding, cooperation and social harmony return to Benue State and to all parts of Arewa and Nigeria," the ACF concluded.
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