President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered security agencies to act decisively in restoring peace to Benue State, following fresh outbreaks of violence that claimed numerous lives in recent days.

The President, in a strong statement issued through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, condemned the reprisal killings and bloodshed, describing them as “inhuman and anti-progress.” He called for urgent action to bring an end to the cycle of violence involving farmers, herders, and local communities.

In response to the President’s renewed directive, intelligence chiefs, the police, and military personnel have arrived in Benue to take charge of ongoing security operations aimed at stabilizing the state and protecting lives and property.

“The latest news of wanton killings in Benue State is very depressing. We must not allow this bloodletting to continue unabated. Enough is now enough,” President Tinubu declared. “I have directed the security agencies to act decisively, arrest perpetrators of these evil acts on all sides of the conflict, and prosecute them.”

Beyond the military and security response, the President has charged Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, with spearheading a reconciliation process. He urged the governor to convene dialogue sessions between the warring parties to foster peace and harmonious coexistence.

President Tinubu also cautioned political and community leaders in the state to desist from making inflammatory statements that could further escalate tensions. He urged them to “rein in those who go out to cause provocations and ignite reprisal attacks.”

“This is the time for Governor Alia to act as a statesman and immediately lead the process of dialogue and reconciliation that will bring peace to Benue,” Tinubu emphasized. “Our people must live in peace, and it is possible when leaders across the divides work together in harmony and differences are identified and addressed with fairness, openness, and justice.”

The presidential directive marks a renewed push to resolve one of Nigeria’s most persistent and deadly internal conflicts, with hopes that sustained action by security forces and genuine political will could finally break the cycle of violence in the region.