Citizens of Benue State have called for urgent and concrete action to end the ongoing wave of violence that has ravaged their communities.
The appeal came during a News Central Town Hall held in Makurdi, which brought together traditional rulers, security personnel, civil society groups, survivors, and community leaders to confront the deepening crisis.
The event served as a critical platform for those directly affected by the violence to share their stories and push for lasting solutions. Speakers expressed deep frustration over the deteriorating security situation and the lack of accountability, highlighting the urgency of addressing what many now describe as a humanitarian catastrophe.
Benue has witnessed a dramatic escalation in deadly attacks, with Fulani militia blamed for a sustained campaign of violence dating back to 2009. Over the years, more than 110 communities have come under attack, resulting in thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 2 million people. In the last two years alone, more than 1,000 people have been killed.
Participants at the Town Hall underscored the need for stronger government intervention. While recent peace efforts were acknowledged, including federal initiatives aimed at stabilizing the region, many attendees voiced disappointment over what they see as the slow pace of justice and weak enforcement of security measures.
Chief Dr. Amos Gizo, Executive Chairman of the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority and Council Member of the Federal University of Lafia, addressed the gathering, noting that climate change has exacerbated the conflict and emphasizing the government’s intent to pursue viable solutions.
However, several voices, including survivors and activists, expressed skepticism. One of the most powerful moments came from social justice advocate Ier Jonathan-Ichaver, who described the attacks as “genocidal”, warning that Benue is witnessing “ethnic cleansing”.
Her remarks echoed the concerns of many who see a deliberate pattern in the violence: coordinated assaults on farming communities, the burning of homes, and forced displacement.
The humanitarian crisis was a recurring theme, with speakers stressing the dire conditions faced by the displaced, many of whom are living in makeshift camps without adequate support. There were urgent calls for coordinated relief efforts as well as long-term strategies to address root causes such as land disputes and ethnic tensions.
News Central Managing Director, Mr. Kayode Akintemi, also addressed the forum, reaffirming the station’s commitment to truth-telling and solution-focused journalism.
As the Town Hall concluded, the collective message from community leaders, survivors, and citizens was clear: Benue needs peace, justice, and accountability—without delay.
