Mandate4, a nation-building non-profit organization, has issued an urgent appeal for immediate and coordinated government efforts to address the escalating violence in Benue State. The crisis has claimed numerous lives, devastated communities, and forced thousands to flee their homes.
According to the organization, the situation highlights significant lapses in security coordination, leaving residents vulnerable and perpetrators unpunished. Century Favour, the founder of Mandate4, emphasized the need for decisive action over mere expressions of sympathy, urging federal, state, and local authorities to protect citizens and restore confidence.
The group outlined four critical demands: enhanced collaboration among security and intelligence agencies, immediate humanitarian aid, inclusive community discussions, and comprehensive support for victims. Favour stressed that protecting at-risk communities must be a priority to prevent further casualties.
Displaced families urgently require food, shelter, medical care, and counseling to cope with their trauma. To achieve sustainable peace, Mandate4 advocated for including local leaders, religious groups, civil society, and conflict resolution specialists in dialogue efforts. The organization also called for justice, financial assistance, housing, and mental health services for those affected.
Favour underscored the need for strong leadership and accountability, urging stakeholders to set aside political differences and focus on the safety and dignity of Benue’s residents. The ongoing violence, which has plagued the state for years, shows no signs of resolution without immediate intervention.
