Benue in Blood: Death Toll Mounts as Killings Continue

By Destiny Tamunoala Emmanuel 

Benue State, Nigeria, is grappling with a humanitarian crisis as violent attacks continue to claim lives and displace thousands. The recent surge in killings has left the state reeling, with over 1,200 lives lost to communal violence since 2016.

In a devastating attack on June 13-14, 2025, gunmen struck Yelwata village in Guma Local Government Area, killing over 150 people and forcing thousands to flee. This incident follows a series of previous attacks, including those in February and May 2025, which resulted in dozens of deaths.

The government has responded to the crisis, with President Bola Tinubu directing security chiefs to implement measures to bring lasting peace and security to Benue State. The Inspector General of Police and the Chief of Defense Staff have also visited the state, pledging decisive action to end the violence.

However, despite these efforts, the killings continue, and the people of Benue State are crying out for help. Humanitarian organizations have mobilized to provide emergency assistance to affected families, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of the conflict.

As the death toll mounts, there are growing calls for the government to take more drastic action. A professor of Law Practice has urged President Tinubu to declare a state of military emergency in Benue State, while the Sultan of Sokoto has condemned the killings and called for proactive security measures.

The situation in Benue State is a stark reminder of the need for effective security measures and sustainable solutions to address the underlying issues driving the conflict. As the government and stakeholders work towards finding a solution, the people of Benue State can only hope for peace and security.