Benue attacks a national tragedy — FG will act decisively, says Ribadu

Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA), on Tuesday said the federal government is committed to ending insecurity in Benue.

Ribadu spoke during a stakeholders’ meeting in Makurdi, the capital of Benue, following the killing of over 72 people in Ukum and Logo LGAs on Good Friday.

The NSA said President Bola Tinubu had made it clear that Benue is not alone in its security challenges, adding that the entire country is grappling with similar issues.

Describing the killings as a national tragedy, Ribadu said, “It was evil that visited the state.”

“I’m here to commiserate with you and the good people of Benue over the loss of your people and to assure you that the country stands with you,” he said.

“The president is with you. This is a trying period for us all. This is a moment of sorrow, and it is during such times that you know those who truly care.

“What happened is a tragedy — an act of evil. But when evil comes, good people must unite to confront it.

“Benue is an extremely important state in Nigeria. As the food basket of the nation, you are number one in food production, and we are proud of you.

“We will solve this problem together. Do not feel alone — this challenge affects us all.

“Our armed forces and security agencies are doing their best, but such incidents persist because it is impossible to deploy personnel to every hamlet.

“Countries go through difficult phases. Insecurity is a tough challenge to overcome.

“Causing harm is easy, but solving the underlying issues is much harder — yet we are doing our best.

“As a government of less than two years, we have already significantly reduced the levels of extreme violence we inherited.”