Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on the people of Benue State to embrace peace, dialogue, and tolerance as the only viable path to resolving conflict.
Speaking in Makurdi on Tuesday during a condolence visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia and the people over recent violent attacks, she emphasized lasting unity through understanding.
Call for Peaceful Coexistence
The First Lady urged all Benue communities to bury any grievances and return to cordial and peaceful coexistence for the benefit of all residents.
She emphasized that when disagreements arise, dialogue and patience remain the best solution, rather than resorting to violence and bloodshed.
The First Lady declared that the way of peace is the way of love and love is the greatest power on earth.
Condolence Visit to Benue
Senator Tinubu was in Makurdi on Tuesday on a condolence visit to the state over continuous loss of lives in recent violent attacks.
The purpose of her visit was to commiserate with Benue people, especially those who lost their family members and properties in the attacks.
She described the killings as heart-wrenching and unnecessary, speaking as a concerned mother who feels the pain of grieving families.
N1 Billion Donation
The First Lady donated N1 billion to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State through her Renewed Hope Initiative.
The donation is specifically targeted at victims of displaced communities in Benue State to help alleviate their suffering and rebuild lives.
She also provided relief materials to help address the immediate needs of the displaced persons living in difficult conditions.
Displaced Persons’ Plight
The First Lady lamented that displaced persons in Benue state are living in hellish conditions that require urgent attention and intervention.
She expressed deep concern about the worrisome situation facing internally displaced persons across the state and other affected regions.
The visit comes after the massacre of over 200 people on the night of Saturday, June 13, and morning of Sunday, June 14, 2025.
Governor’s Appreciation
Governor Hyacinth Alia expressed appreciation for the First Lady’s motherly care and support to Benue in its most trying times.
The governor said that Benue was overwhelmed by the first lady’s thoughtfulness, kindness, and generosity during their darkest hour.
He added that her presence and donation spoke volumes of her motherly heart, compassion, and commitment to national solidarity.
Immediate End to Violence
The First Lady called for an immediate end to the wave of violence and killings currently ravaging Benue State.
She assured the people of Benue of the federal government’s commitment to addressing security challenges and protecting lives and property.
The First Lady emphasized that the President Bola Tinubu administration remains dedicated to ensuring peace and stability across all states.
Cultural Diversity Message
Senator Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s cultural diversity represents collective strength that should be harnessed for national development and progress.
She urged various ethnic groups in the country to find ways to harness their diversity for collective benefit.
The First Lady emphasized that differences should unite rather than divide the various communities living in Benue State.
Renewed Hope Initiative
Mrs Tinubu made the donation through her NGO, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), as part of efforts to support victims.
The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support to victims of violent attacks and help communities rebuild after traumatic experiences.
She emphasized that the Renewed Hope Initiative will continue providing assistance to affected communities across Nigeria.
Community Leaders’ Role
The First Lady called on traditional rulers and community leaders to embrace their roles as peace ambassadors.
She emphasized that local leaders have crucial responsibilities in preventing conflicts and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes.
The First Lady stressed that community-level interventions are essential for achieving sustainable peace and preventing future violent incidents.
Maternal Appeal
As a mother, the First Lady made an emotional appeal to all parties to choose peace over violence.
She emphasized that mothers across the country are tired of losing their children to senseless violence and killings.
The First Lady called on all stakeholders to consider the pain of families affected by the ongoing conflicts.
Long-term Peace Strategy
Senator Tinubu emphasized that lasting peace requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders including government, communities, and individuals.
She called for the development of comprehensive peace-building programs that address root causes of conflicts in the state.
The First Lady stressed that peace-building efforts must be continuous and involve all segments of society to be effective.
Message of Hope
Despite the challenges facing Benue State, the First Lady expressed optimism about the possibility of achieving lasting peace.
She encouraged the people to remain hopeful and committed to peaceful coexistence while working together for a better future.
The First Lady concluded by reaffirming her commitment to supporting Benue State in its journey toward peace and development.
The First Lady’s visit demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to addressing security challenges in Benue State.