Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly condemned the recent attack on Yelwata community in Benue State that claimed more than 200 lives, describing the incident as "an act of terrorism."
Speaking during plenary on Wednesday, Akpabio expressed deep sadness over the massacre and raised concerns that the violence might have political motivations behind it.
"Those behind this violence will be identified and made to face the full wrath of the law," Akpabio warned, emphasizing the government's commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Senate Launches Probe into Plateau Killings
In a related development, the Senate has initiated an investigation into the killing of twelve travelers from Zaria, Kaduna State. The victims were en route to a wedding ceremony in Quan'pan Local Government Area of Plateau State when they were murdered in Mangu District on Saturday.
The motion for the investigation was sponsored by Senator Khalid Mustapha, representing Kaduna North. During the plenary session, the Senate observed a minute of silence in memory of the victims and passed a resolution condemning the killings.
The red chamber has directed its committees on national security and intelligence, defence, and police affairs to conduct a comprehensive probe into the killings and present appropriate recommendations.
Additionally, the Senate has tasked the Inspector General of Police with ensuring the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the Mangu killings.
The Chief of Defence Staff had previously made controversial claims regarding the Yelwata massacre, suggesting that Benue residents had provided food, shelter, and women to the killers, though these allegations have been met with significant backlash from community leaders and rights groups.
These incidents highlight the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria's Middle Belt region, where communal clashes and terrorist activities continue to claim innocent lives despite government assurances of improved security measures.
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