Benue Monarch Rejects Tinubu’s Narrative, Calls Violence And Killings “Genocide”

The Tor Tiv V of Benue State, Prof. James Ayatse, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s description of the ongoing violence in Benue State as a “farmers-herders crisis” or “communal conflict.”

According to Ayatse, the situation is a “genocidal invasion and land grabbing by terrorists”.

During President Tinubu’s visit to the state amid rising insecurity, Ayatse expressed concern over the misinformation and misrepresentation of the security crisis in Benue State.

He emphasized that the violence is not simply a matter of clashes between farmers and herders or communal conflicts, but rather a calculated and well-planned invasion by herder terrorists and bandits

The violence in Benue State has been ongoing for years, with recent attacks resulting in significant loss of life. Over 100 residents were reportedly killed in a horrific attack on the Yelewata community on June 14.

The massacre has triggered national and international outrage, with human rights organizations decrying the unending violence in the region.

Amnesty International also condemned the killings, stating that the security measures the government claims to be implementing in the state are not working.

The rights watchdog warned of a growing humanitarian crisis and demanded accountability.