Akume visits Yelewata, condoles victims' families over killings
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has commiserated with the people of Yelewata and the entire Nyiev Council Ward in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State over the deadly attack that claimed several lives on June 13.
During an on-the-spot visit to assess the level of destruction, Senator Akume urged the people to remain calm and steadfast, assuring them that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making concerted efforts to end the wave of violence in Guma and across the state.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, the SGF expressed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the killings, stating that the federal government is committed to ensuring the protection of all citizens.
Akume regretted the delay in visiting the affected community, noting that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is already mobilising relief materials to support the victims.
He cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands, adding that security agencies have been tasked with improving surveillance and preventing further attacks.
Accompanying the SGF were the Senator representing Benue North-West, Titus Zam, and the Member representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Hon. Dickson Tarkighir. Both lawmakers condoled with the affected families and pledged continued support for the community, commending Akume for facilitating the deployment of security personnel to the area.
A political leader in Nyiev, Hon. Mattew Mnyam, expressed appreciation for the SGF’s visit, saying it brought hope to a grieving community.
The District Head of Nyiev, Zaki Bernard Shawa, revealed that over 100 lives had been lost in the days leading up to the June 13 attack.
He appealed to Senator Akume to help establish a mobile police unit in Yelewata and to ensure that relief materials are provided to the victims.
