Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has strongly criticized both the Federal and Benue State Governments for their failure to prosecute suspects arrested in connection with killings across Benue State, despite numerous arrests over the years.
In a statement issued under the platform of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), which he chairs, Falana expressed dismay that despite many suspects being arrested for crimes ranging from illegal possession of firearms to mass killings and kidnapping, most are never charged or brought to justice.
Falana's criticism comes in response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's recent visit to Benue, during which the President ordered the Nigeria Police Force to arrest and prosecute all those involved in the latest wave of violence in the state.
The senior lawyer described the president's directive as "potentially symbolic," noting that previous arrests had not led to convictions or justice for victims.
Security Officials Under Fire
Falana also criticized Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, for accusing residents of Yelwata community of providing shelter for killers. He characterized the CDS' statement as "an attempt to shift blame onto victims instead of addressing the systemic failures of security and governance."
"It is undoubtedly clear that the authorities have continued to treat suspected killers in Benue State like sacred cows," Falana stated.
Pattern of Arrests Without Prosecution
The human rights advocate highlighted several instances of arrests that have not led to prosecutions:
On December 30, 2024, Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hassan Yabanet, announced the arrest of 273 suspects involved in capital crimes, along with the recovery of 20 firearms and 51 rounds of ammunition.
On January 17, 2024, Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed that an illegal firearms factory had been uncovered in Benue, with two suspects arrested and weapons seized.
On April 17, 2025, Governor Hyacinth Alia disclosed that three herdsmen were arrested over the killing of 11 people in the Otobi community, Otukpo Local Government Area.
On June 19, 2025, Community Volunteer Guards apprehended three suspected kidnappers at the Otukpo motor park with ransom money collected from their victims.
Falana noted that between January and June 2025 alone, dozens of violent crime suspects have been arrested, including 43 suspected killers in the last 10 days. Despite these arrests, no significant prosecutions have been reported.
"The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Benue State, Mr. Fidelis Mnyim, must take immediate steps to ensure that justice is served," Falana insisted.
The ongoing security challenges in Benue State have remained a significant concern for residents and observers alike, with calls for more decisive action from both state and federal authorities.
Stay updated with the latest news by following BenriNews on our social media platforms:
