President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has finally broken his silence on the recent massacre in Benue State, describing the violence as “very depressing and unacceptable,” and issuing a strong directive to Governor Hyacinth Alia and Nigeria’s security chiefs to act swiftly.

The President’s intervention follows a wave of national outrage over the killings in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, where dozens of civilians were reportedly murdered by suspected armed herdsmen between June 13 and 14. Unconfirmed reports place the death toll at over 100, prompting widespread condemnation and protests.

In a statement released by the presidency on Sunday evening, Tinubu declared, “Enough is enough. These acts of bloodshed cannot continue under any guise.” He emphasized that no group or individual will be allowed to threaten Nigeria’s peace, unity, and democratic order.

President Tinubu directed the nation’s security architecture—including the police, military, and intelligence agencies—to launch an immediate operation to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the attacks. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has since arrived in Benue to assess the situation and oversee the deployment of tactical units to the affected communities.

“I have instructed the security chiefs to leave no stone unturned in tracking down those responsible. They must face the full wrath of the law,” the President said.

In addition to federal action, President Tinubu has tasked Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia with leading peace and reconciliation efforts between herder and farming communities. He urged the governor to convene dialogue sessions involving traditional rulers, youth leaders, and civil society organizations to forge a path to lasting peace.

“The solution to this crisis must be both immediate and sustainable. Governor Alia has a key role to play in promoting understanding, rebuilding trust, and addressing the root causes of this conflict,” Tinubu added.

The President also appealed to political, religious, and community leaders across the country to avoid making inflammatory statements that could worsen tensions.

“This is not the time for divisive rhetoric. We must all speak the language of unity, fairness, and justice,” he stressed.

The President’s response comes amid rising criticism over the government’s initial silence. Protests erupted in parts of Benue over the weekend, with demonstrators demanding accountability and immediate security intervention. Some were reportedly dispersed with tear gas by police.

With heightened security operations now underway, Nigerians await concrete results as the federal and state governments attempt to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed