By Emmanuel Antswen
President Bola Tinubu has directed that a peace resolution committee should be constituted as part of efforts to end incessant attacks, killings, and displacements of communities in Benue state.
The President directed governments of Benue and Nasarawa to constitute the committee to find lasting solutions to the crisis at a Town Hall meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi on Thursday.
Tinubu visited Benue following killings of more than 200 people with scores of others injured and houses and properties destroyed in an attack on Yelwata community in the state on 13 June.
The President listed the Tor Tiv, Prof James Ayatse, Och’Idoma Elaigwu Odogbo,.Gen Atom Kpera (rtd) all former governors, elder statesmen, amongst others, to be members of the committee.
He pledged commitment to invest in the peace project to ensure lasting peace in the state.
According to Tinubu, Benue people have no option than 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.
“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 secured and valued that development can truly take roots,” the president said.
(NAN)
