President Bola Tinubu has told the Benue and Nasarawa state governments to constitute a peace committee towards ending the ongoing killings in Benue and its environs.
Mr Tinubu said this at a town hall meeting with Benue stakeholders as part of his efforts to address the incessant attacks, killings, and displacements of communities in the state.
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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that more than 200 people were killed, scores injured and houses and properties destroyed in the June 13 attack on Yelwata.
The president urged the two state governments to constitute the committee to resolve the crisis.
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He listed the Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, Och’Idoma Elaigwu Odogbo, Gen Atom Kpera (rtd) all former governors and elder statesmen, amongst others, to be committee members.
He pledged commitment to invest in the peace project to ensure lasting peace in the state.
According to Mr Tinubu, the Benue people have no option but to find lasting peace and convert the tragedy into a strong economic prosperity.
“I am committed to investing in peace here in Benue and across Nigeria. Let us create a peace and development committee now, with representation from all stakeholders, including government, traditional leaders, youths, and women.
“Let us meet and design a lasting solution. I’m ready to invest in this peace project. Whatever happens, we will find peace and convert this tragedy into economic prosperity.
“We are to govern, not to bury. We are here to multiply, not to lose numbers,” he said.
The president sympathised with Benue people, especially the people of Yelewata, over the attacks and emphasised the need for unity, sincere leadership, and actionable peace strategies.
READ ALSO: Tor Tiv urges Tinubu to restore peace in Benue
“We are here not just to mourn but to reflect deeply with you. What affects Benue affects all of us. As Nigerians, we are members of the same family, perhaps sleeping in different rooms, but living under the same roof.
“Whether you are Tiv, Idoma, Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo, this country is our shared heritage. We must build it together. We must find solutions, not just talk about the problems.
“Let us stop seeing one another as enemies. We must stop opening doors to terror and violence. We must embrace peace with serious understanding.
“This level of terrorism and conflict must not continue. We need synergy between leaders, traditional rulers, and the youths. It is only when the people feel secure and valued that development can truly take root,” the president said.
(NAN)
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