Makurdi, Benue State — June 20, 2025
The Benue State chapter of the Middle Belt Indigenous Christian Ministers Forum (MBICMF) has strongly condemned the recent spate of killings across communities in the state, describing them as senseless, unprovoked acts of violence against innocent citizens.
In a press statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum, Archbishop Dr. Cephas Ocheola Okwori, the group expressed deep concern over the continued loss of lives and destruction of livelihoods, calling the killings not only tragic but a shameful stain on the conscience of the nation.
“We are here to address a pressing issue that has plagued our state and communities for far too long—the reckless killings of innocent people. These acts of violence are not only tragedies for the families directly affected but also a stain on the fabric of our entire community,” Archbishop Okwori said.
The Forum lamented the trauma left behind in the wake of each attack—grieving families, shattered dreams, and a prevailing climate of fear that threatens the sense of safety and belonging for citizens in their own homes.
Calling for collective action, Archbishop Okwori urged all community members, civil society organizations, religious bodies, and especially the government at all levels, to rise up to their responsibility in safeguarding lives and property.
“The government must lead the charge. These attackers must be identified and designated as terrorists. Their activities must no longer be tolerated or allowed to fester. Our people are being killed in their homes without provocation, and this cannot continue,” he emphasized.
The Forum also called for youth empowerment initiatives and community dialogue programs that foster peaceful conflict resolution, urging the public to take part in grassroots efforts to build lasting peace.
“Let us honor the lives lost by becoming agents of change. Together, we can rebuild a society where peace, compassion, and justice prevail,” the statement concluded.
The Forum expressed its condolences to all the families affected by the recent violence and reiterated its commitment to advocacy, community support, and peacebuilding across the region.
