President Bola Tinubu has instructed Nigeria’s security chiefs to enforce his earlier directive aimed at restoring peace and security in Benue State.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The renewed order comes in response to recent reprisal attacks in the state that have claimed numerous lives.

Following the president’s directive, top intelligence officers, as well as police and military personnel, have been deployed to Benue to take charge of security operations and stabilize the region.

In addition, President Tinubu has called on Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to urgently initiate dialogue and reconciliation among the conflicting groups in the state, particularly between farmers, herders, and local communities, in a bid to end the ongoing violence and foster peaceful coexistence.

Condemning the continuous bloodshed, Tinubu described the killings as inhumane and detrimental to progress. He also warned political and community leaders against making provocative statements that could worsen the situation.

“They must restrain individuals who incite violence and trigger retaliatory attacks,” the president stated.

“The latest reports of senseless killings in Benue are deeply distressing. We cannot allow this cycle of violence to continue. It must stop now. I have ordered the security forces to take decisive action, arrest all those involved—regardless of their side—and ensure they face justice,” he declared.

President Tinubu further emphasized the need for responsible leadership and urged Governor Alia to step forward as a true statesman to lead peace efforts.

“Our people deserve to live in peace. This can only be achieved when leaders unite, address differences fairly, and commit to justice and open dialogue,” he concluded.