The recent killing of at least 23 people, including a police officer, in the Gbeji community in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Wednesday as a result of a herders/farmers conflict has drawn condemnation from President Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari contacted Samuel Ortom, the governor of Benue State, three days after the attack to express his condolences to the residents of the North-Central State regarding the fatalities.
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The President added that no one should harm another person because of their way of life in a statement released on Saturday by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu. According to him, political differences must be resolved in the best interests of all citizens.
The Commander-in-Chief believed it was wrong for farmers and herdsmen to kill life.
The President emphasised that Nigerians must first and foremost remember that they are all equal citizens of the nation when tragedies like this have place.
Similarly, President Buhari issued a warning that anyone who take innocent lives will be held accountable by his administration.
“No one should attack anyone because of their way of life. Neither should anyone take revenge on others for injustice done to them. Both should be held accountable for their actions, and justice delivered,” the President said.
“President Muhammadu Buhari and all his administration condemn the recent attacks in Benue State. It is unacceptable for lives to be taken by herdsmen and farmers alike.”
“It is equally unacceptable for the lives of those merely practicing their duties as police officers and government officials to also be lost.
“As those who have been entrusted with leadership by our citizens, we have a duty to remember that and do everything we can to bridge divisions and come together in the interests of all our people.
“There are many times when Buhari and Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue have disagreed politically. But, today, the president puts all these aside, to reach out to the Governor to express the heartfelt condolences of the nation for what has occurred in recent days,” the statement added.
