By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most. Rev. Dr Charles Hammawa, has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against killers of over 100 people in Yelwata, Guma LGA of Benue State.
Hammawa in a press statement issued to Journalists on Saturday in Jalingo, the Bishop called on President Tinubu to match his visit to Benue with visible and decisive action, as condolence and promises were not enough, no matter how sincere they are.
The Bishop expressed displeasure that despite repeated appeals and high-profile visits to the state the killings continue unabated.
“It is disheartening that despite repeated appeals and high-profile visits to the state, the killings continue unabated. The people of Benue and indeed the entire Middle Belt are not merely statistics; they are fellow Nigerians deserving of protection, dignity, and peace.
“We appreciate the President’s recent condolence visit to Benue, but it is imperative that such visits be matched with visible and decisive action. Condolences and promises, no matter how sincere, are not enough.
“What is urgently required is a comprehensive and sustained strategy that will bring the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to justice and restore lasting peace to the affected communities.
“As a Church, we call on the Federal Government, the security agencies, and all relevant authorities to act with courage, compassion, and commitment to justice. 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 their identity, ethnicity, or affiliation,” the Bishop demanded.
Bishop Hammawa on behalf of the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo, expresses deep sorrow and grave concern over the violent attacks in Benue State, particularly the heart-wrenching massacre in Yelwata and surrounding communities, where innocent lives, many of them, defenceless women, children, and the elderly were brutally cut short.
“In this painful moment, we stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Benue State. We offer our heartfelt prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed, healing for the wounded, and divine comfort for grieving families.
“As a Church and as a people of faith, we cannot remain silent in the face of this persistent bloodshed. These killings are not only inhumane but constitute a gross violation of the sanctity of human life, which we are all called to uphold.
“We urge religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to rise above division and join hands in promoting peace and truth in our communities and across the country. May the God of justice and peace arise for His people,” te Bishop of Jalingo Diocese insisted.
