Political activist Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has called on President Bola Tinubu to address the escalating violence in Benue State, where over 200 people were killed in recent attacks by suspected herdsmen.
Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate, condemned the killings in Yelewata and other Benue communities, describing them as a sign of Nigeria’s failing security system. He urged Tinubu to implement urgent reforms to restore peace. The activist highlighted the need for a decentralized security approach, suggesting collaboration with state and local governments to tackle the crisis effectively.
The violence, attributed to armed herdsmen, has displaced thousands, with Governor Hyacinth Alia reporting over 500,000 internally displaced persons in Benue. Olawepo-Hashim criticized the centralized security structure, arguing it is overstretched and unable to respond swiftly to local threats. He also pointed to poor border control, noting the influx of arms and bandits as a key factor.
President Tinubu has announced plans to visit Benue on Wednesday to meet stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community leaders, to seek lasting solutions. Olawepo-Hashim emphasized that immediate action is critical, warning that ongoing bloodshed threatens Nigeria’s stability.
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