The Aare Musulumi of Yoruba Land, Edo and Delta, His Eminence Alhaji (Dr) Dawud Makanjuola Akinola has expressed deep sorrow over the recent killings of innocent citizens in Benue State, describing the incident as painful, condemnable, and a national tragedy.
He extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the government, and the entire people of Benue State. He prays for comfort for those mourning their loved ones, healing for affected communities, and the repose of the souls of the departed.
The Aare Musulumi notes with concern the alarming frequency of violent attacks across various regions of the country, which continue to claim lives and disrupt communal harmony. He emphasizes that no society can thrive under a cloud of fear, bloodshed, and insecurity.
Alhaji Makanjuola while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his condolence and reassurance visit to the people of Benue, further implore the President to ensure relevant security agencies, and all tiers of government intensify their efforts toward ending this cycle of violence. This includes not only deploying more robust and proactive security responses but also addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, injustice, impunity, and lack of proper intelligence management.
The Aare Musulumi strongly advocates for the adoption of a well-structured and constitutionally-backed state policing system, which will empower state governments to take more responsibility for securing lives and property within their jurisdictions. According to him, centralised policing still requires grassroot inputs towards adequately responding swiftly and effectively to local threats. With proper safeguards, training, and community oversight, state policing can serve as a practical step toward a more secure and responsive Nigeria.
He also calls for the arrest and prosecution of all those responsible for this heinous act, stressing that justice must be visible and swift if the government hopes to rebuild public trust.
In addition, he urges religious and traditional leaders across Nigeria to continue using their influence to promote peace, tolerance, and unity while calling on citizens to reject acts of violence and embrace lawful channels for expressing grievances.
He reaffirms his commitment to advocating for peace, good governance, and the protection of all human lives in Nigeria, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.
