Tinubu’s govt determined to end killings in North Central – Akume

Tinubu’s govt determined to end killings in North Central – Akume

By Jeffrey Agbo

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is resolute in its commitment to ending the persistent killings in Benue State and the wider North Central region.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in Makurdi on Wednesday, Akume—himself a former governor of Benue—said the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda places a premium on security and the protection of citizens.

“The Renewed Hope Agenda is clear. We will protect our people at all costs. Mr. President has given strict orders that these killers must be fished out and punished,” Akume stated.

His comments followed President Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue, where he assessed the security situation firsthand and met with victims of violence and displacement. According to Akume, the president was deeply moved by the suffering he witnessed.

“When the President came here, he saw firsthand the pains of our people. His directive to security agencies is unambiguous: leave no stone unturned in restoring peace,” he added.

Akume commended the dedication of security forces operating in the troubled region.

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“Our gallant troops and other security operatives are working round the clock. I salute their courage and sacrifice in these difficult times,” he said.

He urged unity among political leaders, traditional rulers and community stakeholders, calling for a collective front to tackle insecurity.

Akume also called for renewed support for the peace initiative he introduced while serving as governor, and encouraged the current Benue State Government to mobilise every sector of society to support the process.

The SGF noted that the federal government is already responding to the humanitarian fallout through agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and stressed a dual strategy of military action and development to address the root causes of violence.

“We are combining military action with developmental programmes to address root causes. I am personally committed to ensuring peace returns to Benue and the North Central. This administration will not rest until Benue people can sleep with their eyes closed. The era of impunity is over,” he declared.