By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
Jalingo Taraba – June 22, 2025
The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Hammawa, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government to go beyond condolence messages and take concrete action to end the persistent killings in Benue State.
Reacting to the recent attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of the state, where over 100 people were reportedly killed, the Bishop said it was unacceptable that such violence continued despite repeated appeals and high-profile visits.
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In a statement issued on Saturday in Jalingo, Hammawa urged the President to back his words with decisive and visible actions that would restore peace and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“It is disheartening that despite repeated appeals and visits, the killings continue unabated. The people of Benue and the entire Middle Belt are not mere statistics. They are fellow Nigerians deserving of protection, dignity, and peace,” he said.
“Condolences and promises, no matter how sincere, are not enough. What is urgently required is a comprehensive and sustained strategy to bring the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice.”
The cleric called on the Federal Government, security agencies, and relevant authorities to act with urgency, stressing that the continued inaction contributes to a growing culture of impunity.
“The state must not abdicate its responsibility. The culture of impunity must end. Those who have committed crimes against humanity must be held accountable, irrespective of identity, ethnicity, or affiliation,” he added.
Bishop Hammawa also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in Yelwata and surrounding communities, describing the killings of women, children, and the elderly as “a gross violation of the sanctity of life.”
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“We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Benue. We offer heartfelt prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed, healing for the wounded, and comfort for grieving families,” he said.
He called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to unite in fostering peace across the country.
“As people of faith, we cannot remain silent in the face of such bloodshed. We urge all leaders to rise above division and work together for peace and justice. May the God of justice and peace arise for His people,” he said.
