Innocent Idibia, a veteran Nigerian musician who is better known as 2Face, has condemned the massacre of over two hundred indigenes in Benue state.
The Technical Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on Entertainment and Community Outreach expressed deep sorrow over the persistent violence, lamenting that the attacks continue to recur without any lasting solution from the authorities.
In a video broadcast, the legendary musician called on all Benue stakeholders to rise above politics and personal interests and work together to end the crisis.
He said, “My heart is heavy. I am terribly sad and angry. What is happening in Benue State has become a national emergency. I can’t wrap my head around it anymore. I don’t even know what to say at this point. This has to stop.
“My sadness, my anger, my frustration, it’s overwhelming that this keeps happening over and over again. This is no longer something we can just condemn in words. Serious action needs to be taken.
“Every stakeholder in Benue must join hands. We can end this. I believe there is a solution.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has also condemned the recent wave of coordinated attacks in Benue State that have claimed the lives of over 200 people, calling the killings a national tragedy and demanding immediate government intervention.
In a press statement issued and signed by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the apex Christian body described the massacre as “senseless and horrific,” warning that continued inaction by the authorities could deepen the cycle of violence in the region and further destabilize the nation.
“These senseless killings have inflicted immeasurable pain on families, devastated communities, and further entrenched the insecurity threatening our nation,” Archbishop Okoh said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved and pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.”
CAN lamented that the people of Benue State have endured repeated, deadly attacks for years, often blamed on armed groups, without effective response or lasting justice.
“For too long, the people of Benue have been subjected to recurrent assaults… without meaningful intervention or justice,” the statement read. “This persistent failure to safeguard citizens and bring perpetrators to account has emboldened attackers and prolonged the cycle of violence.”
