Benue Killings: Tinubu Must Move Beyond Condolences — Taraba Bishop Urges Swift Justice

The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Hammawa, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Federal Government to go beyond mere condolences and take immediate, firm action against those responsible for the horrific mass killings in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

Delivering a formal statement in Jalingo on Saturday, Bishop Hammawa decried the ongoing violence and loss of life in Benue State, emphasizing that these tragedies persist despite multiple interventions and high-level visits, including that of President Tinubu himself.

“It is deeply troubling that despite repeated pleas and official visits by senior government figures, the bloodshed in Benue has not ceased. The people of Benue and the broader Middle Belt are not just numbers — they are citizens of Nigeria who deserve safety, respect, and peace,” the bishop lamented.

He acknowledged President Tinubu’s condolence visit to Benue but emphasized that compassion expressed through words alone is insufficient in addressing the crisis.

“While we welcome the President’s sympathy, the time for verbal assurances is over. We need tangible action — a defined, robust approach that ensures justice for the victims and long-term peace for the communities involved,” Bishop Hammawa stressed.

The bishop condemned the brutal attack on Yelwata and neighboring communities, where reports indicate that over 100 individuals — including women, children, and the elderly — were mercilessly killed. He reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering support for those affected.

“At this dark hour, we align ourselves with our grieving brothers and sisters in Benue. We offer sincere prayers for the deceased, healing for the wounded, and comfort for the families torn apart by this violence,” he added.

Calling for urgent and courageous action from Nigeria’s security agencies and leadership, Bishop Hammawa insisted that justice must prevail.

“The government must not shy away from its duty. The cycle of impunity must be broken. Those behind these acts — regardless of their status or affiliations — must be identified and prosecuted,” he declared firmly.

The bishop further appealed to religious figures, traditional rulers, and local leaders to set aside differences and come together in a collective push for justice and sustainable peace across the region.