The spiritual leader of Nigerian Muslims, Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing violence in Benue State, declaring that the time has come to end the cycle of senseless killings that has claimed over 300 lives in recent weeks.
The Sultan’s intervention comes through a statement released by the Secretary-General of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, following a devastating wave of attacks that began on June 14 when armed herders launched an assault on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
In the statement titled “Time to rise beyond lamentations as Benue bleeds again,” the Sultan expressed deep concern over the security agencies’ apparent inability to prevent or anticipate these deadly attacks, which have continued to terrorize communities across the state.
The religious leader emphasized that such violence against innocent citizens cannot be tolerated regardless of the victims’ background, stressing the sanctity of human life across all divides.
“Enough is enough. Our collective silence or indifference may only serve to embolden the enemies of peace and national unity in Nigeria,” the Sultan stated through the JNI statement.
The Sultan called for national unity in confronting the security challenges, urging Nigerians to move beyond divisive narratives and stand together against violence. He emphasized that the protection of human life transcends ethnic, religious, and political boundaries.
“As we mourn with Benue State, let this serve as a moment of national reflection. Let us shun divisive narratives and rise as one humanity to say ‘No More’ to senseless killings, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or political inclination! Human life remains sacred and must be treated as such, as we have repeatedly stated,” the statement read.
The JNI leader also extended condolences to the families of victims and the Benue State government, while calling on divine intervention for lasting peace in the troubled state and across Nigeria.
“We also commiserate with the government and the good people of Benue State over the monumental tragedy. Indeed, no sane society should normalise such carnage,” the statement concluded.
The Sultan’s declaration adds to growing calls for urgent action to address the persistent security challenges in Benue State, where farmer-herder conflicts and other forms of violence have displaced thousands and created a humanitarian crisis in recent years.
