NANS Demands Action Over Benue Massacre
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Tinubu and the Benue State government to act urgently over the recent massacre in Yelwata community , where over 200 people, including children, were killed .
In a statement released on Wednesday in Abeokuta , read by Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia , NANS National Vice President on Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs, the group described the attacks as barbaric and warned that Nigeria could be heading toward genocide if no action is taken.
“These killings have the signs of ethnic cleansing,” she said.
She added:
“If this continues unchecked, Nigeria may face a Rwanda-style tragedy.”
“Killings Must Be Stopped Now” – NANS Warns
NANS condemned the brutal attack in Yelwata , Guma Local Government Area, which was allegedly carried out by killer herdsmen .
“This is not just violence—it’s dastardly, it’s targeted, and it must end now.”
The student body urged the federal government to find lasting solutions to the ongoing bloodshed in Benue, Plateau , and other affected states.
It also expressed disappointment over the failure of security agencies to prevent these attacks, despite repeated warnings.
“We are deeply concerned about how slow the response has been,” Akinbodunse said.
Federal and State Govt Must Work Together – NANS
NANS called for closer collaboration between the federal government and Benue State to protect citizens and bring peace to the region.
The union also asked both levels of government to boost security around tertiary institutions and student hostels in Benue, where many students live and study amid rising insecurity.
“Campuses must not become targets,” Akinbodunse stressed.
She said all perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and brought to justice.
“There can be no more excuses. This must stop.”
“We Will Mobilise If Needed” – NANS Issues Warning
Akinbodunse warned that NANS will mobilise students nationwide to protest if the killings continue without resolution.
“We cannot remain silent while our country bleeds.”
She urged the Tinubu-led administration to act now to restore peace and prevent further loss of life.
“Let us not allow this administration to be remembered for failing to protect its own citizens.”
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