Pope Leo Condemn Benue Killings, Offers Prayers For Victims

Pope Leo XIV has condemned the deadly attack in Benue State, calling it a “terrible massacre” that targeted mostly displaced people who were killed with “extreme cruelty.”

Speaking at the Vatican during his Sunday Angelus address, the Pope voiced serious concern about the growing violence in Nigeria.

He offered prayers for peace, justice, and safety, especially for rural Christian communities in Benue, who he said continue to suffer repeated attacks.

The attack happened late Friday night in Yelwata, a border community between Benue and Nasarawa states.

Suspected armed herdsmen reportedly stormed the area, opening fire on residents.

Maurice Orwough, chairman of Guma Local Government Area, confirmed the violence and said over two dozen people were seriously injured and taken to the hospital.

He explained that the attackers struck around 11:30 p.m., overpowering four soldiers stationed in the area.

According to Orwough, the gunmen had first tried to hit Daudu but were pushed back by the military. They later regrouped and moved on to Yelwata with over 100 armed men attacking civilians.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also reacted to the tragedy. In a statement posted on X, he expressed shock and heartbreak over the killings, saying more than 100 lives were feared lost.

He described the event as another grim reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security situation.

Atiku called for a thorough and transparent investigation, stronger security efforts, and immediate humanitarian support for the victims.

He stressed that the incident wasn’t just a local tragedy but a national emergency that deserved urgent attention.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, also condemned the attack.

He reassured residents that steps were being taken to restore order and protect lives.

According to him, federal tactical teams have been sent to the state, with more reinforcements on the way.

The governor added that joint operations were being strengthened to respond more effectively to the crisis.

KanyiDaily recalls that Governor Hyacinth Alia also confirmed that over 200 people were killed in a brutal attack in Yelwata by suspected herdsmen from Nasarawa State.