Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has described the killing of over 100 people in Benue State as “a national emergency” that demands urgent and decisive action from the Nigerian government.
Reacting to the gruesome attacks in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku said he is deeply shocked and heartbroken by the latest wave of violence that claimed the lives of innocent Nigerians in defenceless communities.
“Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced,” he wrote.
Atiku condemned the killings and urged both the Federal Government and the Benue State authorities to immediately investigate the attacks, identify the perpetrators, and ensure justice is served. He stressed the need for a stronger security presence in rural areas, with proper deployment of personnel, equipment, and intelligence to prevent further bloodshed.
He also called for urgent support for survivors and bereaved families, including medical assistance, trauma counselling, and the restoration of livelihoods. According to him, affected communities should be engaged through traditional leaders and civil society groups to help rebuild trust and foster resilience.
Atiku appealed to Nigerians across all ethnic and religious backgrounds to unite in condemning the senseless violence, noting that the killings were not just a local tragedy but a threat to national unity and peace.
“This assault on innocent Nigerians is not just a local tragedy, it is a national emergency,” Atiku stressed.
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