June 22, (THEWILL) – Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for the constitution of a Peace Committee to address insecurity in Benue State, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has commenced consultations with key traditional leaders in the state.
The SGF on Saturday paid separate visits to the Tor Tiv, HRM Prof. James Ortese Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, HRM Dr. John Elaigwu Odogbo, to engage them on the president’s mandate.
The consultations are part of efforts to fine-tune modalities for the swift implementation of the presidential directive issued during President Tinubu’s condolence and solidarity visit to Benue State last Wednesday.
The visit followed the terrorist attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, which claimed over 200 lives.
During his visits, Akume informed the paramount rulers of their inclusion in the peace committee as directed by the president, stressing the importance of building consensus for an inclusive committee that will deliver on the president’s vision to end insecurity and restore peace across the state.
He emphasized President Tinubu’s deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Benue, noting that the state’s comparative advantages—particularly as Nigeria’s agricultural hub and a key player in the nation’s food security—are being eroded.
Akume expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers for mobilizing their subjects to receive President Tinubu during his recent visit.
He also urged them to ensure that the traditional institution under their leadership continues to play a vital role as custodians of grassroots security, to restore Benue’s fast-eroding glory.
A statement signed by Mr. Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the SGF, noted that both the Tor Tiv and the Och’Idoma expressed gratitude to the president for his show of solidarity with the state and welcomed the peace initiative.
The royal fathers also pledged their full commitment to the success of the committee.
Those on the SGF’s entourage included Major-General Harrison Adoga (retd.), Comrade Abba Yaro, Dr. Philip Eche, Prince Simon Aóndona, Dr. Kaalu Akerkper, Hon. Tony Sende, Barr. Maureen Teryila Agbo, and Hon. Benji Penda, among others.
