Tinubu aware of Benue attacks, working to restore peace – Presidency

The Presidency has assured residents of Benue State that President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of the recent wave of violence in the state and is working to restore lasting peace in affected communities.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Abiodun Essiet, gave the assurance on Friday during a visit to communities in Kwande Local Government Area that were recently attacked.

Essiet said the visit was aimed at assessing the situation on the ground and relaying the concerns of affected residents directly to the President.

She assured residents that the Federal Government was committed to addressing the security challenges and restoring stability in the area.

According to her, she had earlier met with officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the commander of Operation Whirl Stroke to discuss complaints raised by locals, including concerns about delayed security responses.

“They briefed me thoroughly and explained the circumstances. We know how painful and difficult this situation is for your communities. My visit today is to personally observe what is happening and accurately relay your concerns to the President,” she said.

Essiet emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains neutral and committed to protecting lives and property, dismissing allegations that security agencies support any group involved in the conflict.

“I want to assure you that the military will always remain neutral. They are committed to protecting citizens and will not support or arm any group,” she said, urging residents to remain patient as the government strengthens security measures.

She also pledged to present the grievances of affected communities to the President and expressed confidence that improvements in the performance of security agencies would soon become visible.

Speaking on concerns surrounding natural resource activities in the area, Essiet promised to convey the community’s complaints to the appropriate federal authorities.

She noted that both the federal and state governments must work together to ensure that natural resources are properly managed for the benefit of host communities.

According to her, legitimate mining operations and corporate social responsibility programmes should focus on community empowerment, education, infrastructure development and essential social services.

Essiet added that her office was established as part of a broader effort by the Federal Government to strengthen communication between government and communities in the North Central region.

She encouraged residents to continue sharing their concerns with authorities.

“When you speak out, we are able to understand your challenges and take action. But if communication stops, it becomes difficult for us to respond effectively,” she said.