A coalition of 130 Yoruba and Itsekiri groups, known as the Alliance of Yoruba Democratic Movement (AYDM), has strongly criticized the recent killing of over 200 people in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The group claims the attack is part of a broader Fulani agenda to dominate politically and seize land, warning that the absence of a Fulani president is being exploited to push Nigeria toward conflict. In a statement by AYDM General Secretary Popoola Ajayi, the coalition accused certain Fulani leaders of orchestrating violence to weaken Benue and Plateau communities, facilitating expansion into southern Nigeria.
The group expressed solidarity with the Middle Belt, noting that the South-West faces similar threats from extremist attacks. AYDM highlighted that the violence, carried out by well-funded Fulani militias posing as herdsmen or bandits, has spread to the North-Central, South-East, and South-West regions. Since 2015, over 4,000 lives have been lost in Nasarawa, Plateau, and Benue, with villages destroyed and locals displaced by outsiders occupying their lands.
The coalition suggested the attacks are politically motivated, tied to the 2027 elections, and aimed at territorial control. AYDM called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action beyond issuing statements, emphasizing the need for a restructured Nigeria where regions can protect their people and resources to end the violence. The group vowed to stand with affected communities in the ongoing crisis.
