Benue Massacre: Sobomabo Urges Tinubu To Act Boldly

Port Harcourt, Nigeria — The National Leader of the Simplicity Movement, High Chief Sobomabo Jackrich, has condemned the recent mass killing in Yelewata, Guma LGA of Benue State, describing it as a devastating national tragedy stemming from security lapses and poor coordination.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Jackrich expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Benue. “As a nation, we must not normalize these killings. Entire families have been wiped out, homes razed, and communities shattered,” he said.

He called the massacre part of a troubling pattern of unchecked violence across Nigeria, and stressed that accountability must be enforced. “Those responsible—whether directly or by complicity—must be brought to justice,” he urged.

Jackrich appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seize this moment to implement bold, preventive security reforms and urged him to initiate urgent steps to address the root causes of insecurity.

Among his recommendations were:independent Judicial Inquiry: He called for a high-level, impartial panel to investigate the Yelewata killings and similar attacks, with public findings and actionable outcomes.

Intelligence Reform: He proposed a nationwide audit and overhaul of Nigeria’s intelligence system to improve detection and disruption of terrorist threats.

Security Force Repositioning: He stressed the need to reorient the armed forces and police, urging internal reviews to eliminate saboteurs and promote accountability.

Community-Based Security: Jackrich advocated for formalized local security structures, including early warning systems and community policing backed by legislation.

Victim Support Fund: He called for the creation of a federal support scheme to rebuild affected communities and provide trauma care, food, and shelter.

Regular Security Briefings: He urged the presidency to adopt transparent communication to rebuild public trust and counter misinformation.

“This moment requires leadership that listens and acts,” Jackrich concluded. “Nigerians are not asking for miracles—they are asking for protection, justice, and hope.”

By Makinde oyinkansola| June 19, 2025