The recurring violence in Benue State, punctuated by the horrific June 13 massacre in Yelewata community, has prompted calls for decisive government action. The National Youth Stakeholders Forum, a prominent youth group, urges President Bola Tinubu to establish a Nigeria Inter-Ethnic Nationalities Peace Commission to address the root causes of these conflicts. This commission would play a pivotal role in mediating disputes, fostering dialogue, and promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse ethnic groups. The group’s leader, Oladotun Hassan, emphasizes that the government must move beyond mere peace talks and adopt a multi-faceted approach that combines decisive military action with comprehensive humanitarian interventions.
The Yelewata massacre, which tragically claimed over 200 lives, underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address the escalating violence. The National Youth Stakeholders Forum contends that the government must prioritize community and regional cooperation to effectively combat terrorism and insurgency. Collaboration with neighboring countries is crucial to stem the flow of arms, disrupt terrorist networks, and curtail the movement of funds across borders. This collaborative approach would enhance intelligence sharing, strengthen border security, and facilitate joint operations against cross-border criminal activities.
Hassan strongly condemns the gruesome and unprovoked killings in Yelewata, highlighting the immense suffering and displacement caused by the violence. He demands justice for the victims and insists that those responsible, including any complicit security officers or public officials, be held accountable under the full force of the law. This unwavering pursuit of justice is essential to deter future atrocities and ensure that perpetrators do not escape punishment. The government must demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting its citizens.
The National Youth Stakeholders Forum also advocates for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture. They propose the establishment of a Forest Guard, a specialized unit trained to patrol and secure forested areas where criminal elements often operate. This initiative would enhance security presence in vulnerable regions, deter illegal activities, and protect communities from attacks. Furthermore, the group calls for increased funding for intelligence operations, modernization of military equipment, and improved coordination among security agencies. These measures are essential to bolster the nation’s security capabilities and effectively counter the threats posed by armed groups.
The welfare of security personnel is another critical area that requires immediate attention. Hassan stresses the importance of providing adequate compensation, including competitive salaries, comprehensive health care, and educational opportunities for the children of soldiers and police officers. These measures are essential to boost morale, prevent disillusionment, and minimize the risk of corruption or collusion with criminal elements. By prioritizing the well-being of security personnel, the government can strengthen their commitment to duty and enhance their effectiveness in combating crime and terrorism.
In addition to strengthening conventional security forces, the National Youth Stakeholders Forum proposes the creation of a National Joint Regional Security Task Force Network Agency. This specialized agency would provide support to existing security operatives in tackling terrorism and insurgency. By combining the expertise and resources of various security agencies, this task force would enhance operational efficiency, improve information sharing, and facilitate coordinated responses to security threats. This collaborative approach is crucial to achieving a more effective and cohesive national security strategy. The group urges President Tinubu to act decisively, recognizing that the situation demands a comprehensive and multifaceted response that goes beyond mere dialogue. The government must demonstrate its unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens and upholding the rule of law.
