National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu visited Benue State on Tuesday to offer condolences following the recent deadly attacks in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, where more than 72 people were killed on Good Friday. Ribadu condemned the violence, labeling it an "evil act" and a "national tragedy."

During a meeting with stakeholders in Makurdi, the NSA assured the people of Benue that the Bola Tinubu administration was committed to addressing the nation's security challenges. He assured the state that they were not alone in facing such issues, as other parts of Nigeria were dealing with similar threats.

“This is a tragedy and an act of evil. But in times of crisis, good people must come together to overcome it,” Ribadu remarked.

Ribadu also acknowledged that the administration inherited a nation grappling with significant security problems, stressing that resolving these issues would take time and sustained effort. He recognized the difficulty of deploying enough personnel to every community, but affirmed that efforts were underway to address the situation.

“Our security forces are doing their best, but it’s impossible to be everywhere at once. The issue is complex, and we are committed to solving it,” Ribadu stated.

The NSA assured Benue's people that the federal government was taking the issue seriously and would continue to prioritize their security needs. He reiterated that the state was vital to Nigeria’s food production and that the government would work closely with the people to restore safety.

“Benue is essential to Nigeria as the food basket of the nation. We are proud of you, and we will tackle this challenge together,” Ribadu assured.

He also cautioned against politicizing the violence, urging unity in confronting the security threats.

“This is not the time for politics. We must come together and focus on defeating the common enemy,” Ribadu urged.

Ribadu noted that insecurity in Nigeria has been ongoing for over 15 years, stemming from criminality rather than political or religious motives. He compared Nigeria’s situation to those of other countries, like Sudan and Afghanistan, which have struggled with similar security crises.

“This problem is not about politics, religion, or ethnicity—it’s about criminality. We’re committed to addressing it,” Ribadu explained, pointing out that Nigeria has managed to retain control, unlike some other nations.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue also spoke at the meeting, describing the state as having been under siege for years. He lamented the tragic loss of lives, farmland, and property caused by the attacks, which he said had severely impacted the state’s economy.

“Benue has been under attack since 2011. These criminals have no interest in living peacefully with the people. The toll on our lives, farms, and properties has been immense,” Governor Alia stated.

He appealed for continued national support to help bring peace back to the state.