Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent killings in Benue State, describing the incident as a “terrible massacre” where mostly displaced civilians were murdered with “extreme cruelty”.
Delivering his remarks before the Sunday Angelus prayer at the Vatican, the pontiff expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Nigeria and the suffering of affected communities.
The Pope prayed for “security, justice, and peace” to prevail in the country and offered special intercession for the rural Christian communities in Benue, whom he described as “relentless victims of violence.”
The attack occurred in Yelwata, a border town between Benue and Nasarawa states, where suspected herdsmen reportedly stormed the community late Friday night.
The Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Maurice Orwough, confirmed the incident, stating that dozens had been killed and more than 26 others hospitalised.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also condemned the killings, calling for a transparent investigation, enhanced security presence, and immediate humanitarian support for the affected communities.
In a statement on X, he said, “I am deeply anguished and shocked by the devastating news of the fresh attacks in Benue State, where over 100 innocent lives are feared lost.
”These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation.”
He called for a transparent investigation, enhanced security presence, and immediate humanitarian support for the affected communities, including medical and trauma care.
“This is not just a local tragedy; it is a national emergency,” Atiku added.
The massacre has triggered protests in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
On Sunday, angry youths converged at the Wurukum food basket roundabout, demanding justice and condemning what they described as silence from both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Activist Martin Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), joined the demonstrators.
One of the protesters, Solomon Amande, told journalists, “Women, children, the elderly – our people are being slaughtered, and there’s no word from the president or our own governor.”
The protest escalated when the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, attempted to address the crowd but was rejected by the youths, who insisted on hearing directly from Governor Alia. Security forces eventually fired tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
In response, Governor Hyacinth Alia in a statement through his Chief Press Secretary, condemned the Yelwata attack and assured residents of the government’s commitment to restoring order.
“Federal tactical units have been deployed to Benue, with further reinforcements expected. The state’s joint operations are being strengthened, and we remain committed to defending the lives and properties of all residents,” the statement read.
The renewed attacks come on the heels of a series of unresolved massacres in April, which claimed the lives of over 150 people across Benue and Plateau states.
The incident highlighted the need for urgent action to address the ongoing violence and insecurity in Benue State and Nigeria as a whole.
The government and security agencies must work together to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
