His Royal Majesty, Professor James Ayatse, the Tor Tiv and paramount ruler of the Tiv nation, says the security situation in Benue State has significantly improved since the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 18, 2025.
The traditional ruler made the remarks on Tuesday in Makurdi during a condolence visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The First Lady was in the state to commiserate with the people following the recent massacre of over 200 residents by armed militias between June 13 and 14.
Speaking at his palace, the Tor Tiv noted that while killings and attacks had not completely ceased, there has been a marked reduction in violence since President Tinubu’s intervention.
“Your visit comes after the massacre of over 200 of our people on the night of Saturday, the 13th, and the morning of Sunday, the 14th of June, 2025. Your presence follows closely after your husband, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who altered his itinerary to send us a message of comfort on June 18,” Ayatse said.
He disclosed that the President’s directive to the Chief of Defence Staff led to the deployment of additional military personnel to affected communities in the state. According to him, this move has begun to yield results in curbing the activities of armed militias and restoring a sense of security.
The monarch praised Senator Tinubu’s compassion and unwavering support for vulnerable groups across the country, especially in Benue.
“Your presence here today reflects not only your strategic support as a former Senator of the Federal Republic but also your motherly and compassionate response to moments of distress in our nation,” he said.
Ayatse also commended the First Lady for her numerous interventions in the areas of health, agriculture, education, and economic empowerment, including support for internally displaced persons, orphans, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
“We bring before you the painful reality of our people. The persistent attacks by militias on our farms have been sustained for years, leading to loss of lives and property. However, your visit gives us hope that our plight will not be ignored,” he added.
The First Lady is expected to meet with affected communities and inspect ongoing support initiatives as part of her visit to the state.
