Hundreds of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State staged a peaceful protest in Makurdi on Thursday, decrying their worsening living conditions and food shortages at their temporary shelter.
The protesters, who are currently camped at the Makurdi International Ultra Modern Market following last weekend’s deadly attacks by suspected armed herdsmen, marched through Abu King Shuluwa Road chanting solidarity songs and calling on authorities to act swiftly. The attacks, which occurred last Friday and Saturday, claimed the lives of at least 200 men, women, and children.
Carrying placards and visibly distressed, the IDPs lamented the lack of food, water, and basic amenities at the shelter. “We are dying here not just from the trauma of the killings but from hunger and neglect,” said one of the protesters who identified herself as Mrs. Joy Abaver.
However, the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) responded to the protest by alleging that it was politically motivated and possibly sponsored, a claim that has further stirred public outrage.
The humanitarian crisis has drawn national attention, with key political figures weighing in. Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, condemned the federal and state governments for what he described as “shameful insensitivity” to the plight of the victims.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also criticised President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue, dismissing it as a “political spectacle” lacking genuine empathy or tangible commitments to solving the state’s long-standing security challenges.
Human rights lawyer and activist, Dele Farotimi, expressed similar sentiments, stating, “It would have been better if the President had not come at all than to visit and remain disconnected from the suffering of the people.”
In response, President Tinubu has directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to coordinate a committee to address the crisis and work towards a sustainable resolution.
Senator Abdul-Aziz Yari, representing Zamfara West, assured the people of Benue that the President remains committed to justice. “President Tinubu does not make empty threats. He will ensure those behind the heinous killings in Yelewata are brought to justice,” he said.
The president visited Benue State on Wednesday for a condolence visit, where he pledged the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
As the state grapples with one of its deadliest attacks in recent years, pressure continues to mount on the government to provide relief and lasting solutions to the recurring violence that has displaced thousands across Benue.