Benue Killings: Abuja Mourns as Tinubu Orders Crackdown

Over 150 people were killed in coordinated attacks across Benue State last week — a tragedy that has shaken the country and reignited national conversations about insecurity in the Middle Belt.

Every time this happens, they send soldiers after the damage is done. What about protection before the bloodshed?

Ukan Kurugh (name withheld), Abuja-based Benue youth leader

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a full military crackdown on the suspected perpetrators, many believed to be linked to bandit or herdsmen militias operating in rural regions.

But in Abuja, where thousands of Benue indigenes live and work, the sorrow is personal — and the grief is loud.

🧍🏽 Voices from Abuja:

“My uncle and his two children were killed in Guma. I haven’t been able to sleep. This country treats our people like they’re disposable.”
— Terna Tersoo (name withheld), student in Nyanya

“We held a prayer vigil at Apo yesterday. People cried openly. It’s not just numbers — it’s names. It’s children. It’s farmers.”
— Mrs. Comfort Iorfa, church leader and IDP volunteer in Lugbe

🔥 What Happened in Benue:

• Armed attackers stormed villages in Guma and Logo LGAs

• Over 150 civilians killed in a single weekend

• Entire communities displaced — farms, homes, and food stores destroyed

This is one of the deadliest incidents in Benue since 2018, where a similar wave of killings led to a national outcry.

🛡️ Tinubu’s Response:

In a national broadcast, Tinubu condemned the killings and announced:

• Deployment of special forces to affected regions

• Immediate investigation into security lapses

• Promise of support for displaced families

But many say the reaction is too late, and too predictable.

💔 Ongoing Anger in the FCT:

• Silent protests have begun in parts of Kubwa, Karu, and Garki

• Activists are demanding accountability for persistent rural violence

• Some lawmakers from Benue and the FCT are threatening to boycott upcoming security briefings

✅ FAQs

Q: What caused the killings in Benue State in July 2025?
A: Suspected herdsmen and bandit militias attacked multiple rural communities, reportedly over land disputes and ethnic tensions.

Q: How has the federal government responded?
A: President Tinubu has ordered a military crackdown and promised investigations and support for victims.

Q: Are there protests in Abuja?
A: Yes. Peaceful gatherings and vigils have begun in several Abuja communities in solidarity with Benue victims.