As Nigeria faces a renewed wave of violence, the federal government and state authorities have ramped up security efforts in response to escalating attacks in Benue, Plateau, and other regions. National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, reaffirmed the federal government’s resolve to defeat what he termed “evil forces” threatening citizens and communities across the country.
Speaking during a condolence visit to Makurdi, Benue State, Ribadu conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s sympathies to victims of recent deadly attacks, allegedly carried out by armed herders. Ribadu emphasized unity in confronting insecurity, stating that the government remains committed to ending the killings.
“We are fully committed to supporting state efforts to tackle insecurity. Evil may strike, but we will overcome it together,” Ribadu said.
The NSA’s assurance came ahead of a high-level emergency meeting scheduled by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to address the growing violence in Benue and Plateau. The forum, chaired by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, pledged solidarity and support for affected communities. AbdulRazaq emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue and urged youth leaders to denounce violence.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue lamented the continued loss of lives, disclosing that over 2,500 people had been killed, and thousands displaced. Traditional leaders echoed the devastation, accusing the attackers of orchestrating long-term displacement to seize farmlands.
Meanwhile, Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the violence as avoidable and condemned the occupation of forests by armed groups. He called for sustainable peace, stressing unity among all ethnic and religious groups.
Across other states, similar responses unfolded:
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In Niger State, Governor Mohammed Bago announced he would personally lead security operations to flush out miscreants terrorizing Minna. Bago also imposed a night-time curfew on motorcycles and tricycles and warned against harboring criminals.
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Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo hosted a security summit with top political, traditional, and religious leaders. He vowed a tougher crackdown on criminals, especially in Edo North.
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In Gombe, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya held an emergency security council meeting after a fatal Easter procession turned violent in Billiri. Yahaya pledged support for victims’ families and directed stricter coordination between event organizers and security agencies.
Prominent voices like Iba Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, called for urgent restructuring of Nigeria’s security architecture to include local policing. He linked the crisis to broader political failures and warned it threatens national food security.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) joined in the outcry, criticizing the federal government’s lack of action and empathy. CISLAC’s executive director, Auwal Rafsanjani, labeled the response to the growing crisis as “woefully inadequate,” urging a shift from politics to people-centered governance.
From government officials to civil society and traditional leaders, the call is unanimous: urgent, coordinated action is needed to end the bloodshed and restore safety across Nigeria’s troubled regions.
