In a powerful gesture of solidarity and regional unity, the Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, on Tuesday paid a condolence visit to Benue State following the recent deadly attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, which left many civilians dead and several others displaced.
Governor Sule led a high-powered delegation comprising top government officials, security chiefs, and traditional rulers, including the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi.
The visit was aimed at expressing sympathy and fostering cooperation between the two neighbouring states in the face of rising insecurity.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Sule condemned the Yelewata massacre in the strongest terms, describing it as a senseless act of violence against innocent citizens.
He emphasized the urgent need for increased collaboration between Nasarawa and Benue States in intelligence gathering, early warning systems, and peacebuilding efforts to prevent future attacks.
“As neighbours, we must work together to ensure that peace and security are maintained across our borders,” Governor Sule said.
“Nasarawa State stands with the people of Benue in this moment of grief and will continue to support efforts aimed at securing justice and peace.”
To support victims of the attack and aid ongoing recovery efforts, the governor announced a donation of One Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (₦150,000,000) to the Benue State Government.
He noted that the funds would be directed toward relief materials, rehabilitation, and support for the bereaved families.
Receiving the Nasarawa delegation on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr.
Samuel Ode, expressed profound gratitude for the visit and generous support. He described the gesture as a symbol of true brotherhood and reaffirmed Benue’s readiness to deepen inter-state collaboration.
“This visit and donation are deeply appreciated by the government and people of Benue,” Barr. Ode said. “It reflects the compassion and responsibility that define strong leadership.
We are committed to working closely with Nasarawa to restore peace in our communities.”
The delegation from Nasarawa State included the Secretary to the State Government, members of the State Executive Council, heads of security agencies, and revered traditional rulers.
Their presence underscored the seriousness with which the Nasarawa Government views the situation, and its commitment to regional peace and stability.
The Yelewata attack, which occurred last week, has reignited concerns about the persistent insecurity affecting border communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Stakeholders are calling for more decisive action from federal and state authorities to end the violence and provide long-term solutions to the region’s security challenges.
Source: Citizen Television
