Urgent Call for Peace at Zaria Security Summit Amid Rising Violence in Benue State
In response to the alarming surge in violent incidents across Benue State, a critical security summit convened in Zaria, Kaduna State, has emphatically urged an immediate cessation of hostilities. This high-profile gathering was spearheaded by Chief Felix Akiga, the Chairman and proprietor of Choice Leisure Limited, coinciding with the official opening of the Royal Choice Inn Hotel at Ahmadu Bello University.
Prominent Leaders Unite to Address Security Crisis
The summit attracted influential traditional and political leaders, including HRM Prof. James Ayatse, the Tor Tiv of Gboko; Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Zazzau; and Malam Isa Yuguda, former Governor of Bauchi State. Chief Akiga voiced deep concern over the worsening security landscape, highlighting the ineffectiveness of current government measures in halting the violence.
“Historically, the Fulani and Benue communities have lived in harmony, but recent clashes have tragically resulted in significant casualties,” Akiga remarked, underscoring the urgent need for renewed peace efforts.
Building Bridges: Traditional Leaders Pledge Collaborative Peace Initiatives
In a promising development, the Emir of Zazzau committed to a reciprocal visit to the Tor Tiv, aiming to strengthen intercommunal relationships and foster a foundation for sustainable peace. This gesture reflects a growing consensus that reconciliation must be rooted in mutual respect and dialogue.
Chief Akiga further emphasized that many of the violent attacks on Benue communities appear to be perpetrated by external actors rather than local groups. “Uniting all relevant parties is essential to achieving lasting tranquility,” he stated.
Recent Attacks Highlight Urgency for Action
The summit comes in the wake of some of the deadliest assaults in recent memory. In Yelwata alone, suspected armed herders are reported to have killed between 100 and 200 individuals, forcing approximately 3,000 residents to flee. The attackers targeted vulnerable internally displaced persons sheltering in a local marketplace and set numerous homes ablaze.
Similar violent episodes have plagued the region, with fatalities recorded as follows between February and April 2025: 23 in Apa and Gwer West, 5 in Okpomaju, 19 in Kwande, and 72 in Ukum. These figures underscore the escalating humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms.
Pathways to Peace: Strengthening Security and Justice Systems
Against this backdrop, the Zaria summit represents a beacon of hope. The planned goodwill exchange between the Emir of Zazzau and the Tor Tiv, coupled with inclusive stakeholder dialogues, signals a strategic shift towards community-driven peacebuilding supported by accountable governance.
Key recommendations emerging from the summit include rigorous enforcement of anti-grazing regulations, bolstering rural security infrastructure, protecting farmers’ livelihoods, and ensuring prompt judicial responses to violent crimes. These measures are critical to restoring stability and safeguarding the lives of Benue’s citizens.
As the region grapples with ongoing insecurity, the collaborative spirit demonstrated at the Zaria summit offers a vital framework for reconciliation and resilience, emphasizing that peace is achievable through unity, dialogue, and decisive action.
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