The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, has assured victims of the recent Yelwata herdsmen attack that their ancestral lands will not be taken from them. He made this promise on Tuesday during a visit to displaced persons currently staying at the IDP camp set up in the Makurdi International Market.

The visit was part of a broader effort by lawmakers to show solidarity and assess the living conditions of those affected by the June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata community, reportedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The violent invasion led to multiple deaths, injuries, and the mass displacement of residents.

Speaking to the displaced, Dajoh stated clearly, “No one will take your land.” He condemned the brutal attack and emphasized that the Benue State Government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, is committed to ensuring a safe and dignified return for all those affected.

Dajoh praised the governor for his swift response, particularly the immediate creation of the Makurdi IDP camp, which now shelters hundreds of victims. He also commended the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for quickly delivering food and other relief items to the camp.

However, the Speaker stressed the importance of transparency in relief distribution. He warned against corruption or favoritism in the process, urging SEMA’s Executive Secretary, Sir James Iorpuu, and others involved to ensure that aid gets directly to those in need.

“This is not the time for bureaucracy or politics,” Dajoh said. “Every person here deserves equal care and attention.”

During an interactive session, some of the displaced shared heartbreaking accounts of the attack. One elderly man, Aondongu, tearfully recounted how he lost two family members and escaped through the bush with nothing but the clothes on his back.

The lawmakers also inspected the camp to check the availability of shelter, food, medical care, and water. Despite the pain and disruption, Speaker Dajoh encouraged the victims to stay strong, assuring them that the government would not abandon them.

“You have a right to your homes, your peace, and your land — and that right will be protected,” he promised.