By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Yusuf Atah, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prompt and decisive response to the brutal killings of innocent civilians in the Yelwata and Daudu communities, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
Ata described President Tinubu’s visit to Makurdi, just days after the tragedy, as a clear demonstration of proactive governance and genuine empathy.
Ata in a Statement signed by his Aide, Seyi Olorunsola said: “At the town hall meeting in the Government House Banquet Hall, His Excellency publicly directed Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to ‘go after the criminal murderers’ and ensure they are brought to justice.
“The President’s pointed question—’ how come no one has been arrested for committing this heinous crime in Yelewata. Inspector General of Police, where are the arrests?’—underscored his commitment and impatience toward lingering impunity.”
Ata praised President Tinubu for condemning the “senseless bloodletting” and pledged a resolute crackdown that must end the recurrent violence.
According to Ata, President Tinubu clarified that his presence was not for ceremonial purposes, but to mourn with victims and restore peace and hope in the region.
Minister Atah lauded the urgent mobilisation of the full weight of the security architecture: the armed forces under Gen. Musa, the police under IGP Egbetokun, and the intelligence agencies.
He recognized President Tinubu’s action as a powerful reflection of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s commitment to ensuring that “no part of this country is left behind in our drive for security, development, and equity.”
The Minister further observed that President Tinubu’s compassionate engagement—visiting survivors at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and meeting directly with local leaders—sent a vital message: the federal government is serious about justice, restoration, and the rebuilding of lives.
“In Benue, the heart of Nigeria’s agricultural productivity, otherwise known as the Food Basket of the Nation, the Minister affirms that long-term peace is essential.
“The President’s call for a peace committee comprising former governors, traditional rulers, and community representatives, as well as the establishment of ranching zones and blood-donation drives, speaks volumes about the integrated and strategic framework being rolled out,” the Statement added.
The Minister also said he stood in solidarity with the people of Benue State at this testing time and encouraged them to stand fast in their faith in the leadership of President Tinubu and the security forces to ensure that nothing of the sort that is being mourned ever happens again.
Atah also assured Nigerians that “this crisis will be met with the full determination of the federal government.”
The Minister pledged to stand in solidarity with President Tinubu in delivering justice, compensating victims, rehabilitating displaced families, and securing farmlands from further attacks.
He also urged the people of Benue to embrace the solidarity and security that the federal response embodies.
“Together, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the federal government affirms its pledge: to protect lives, punish perpetrators, rebuild communities, and ensure that every region of our nation enjoys the dignity and opportunity they deserve,” the Statement added.