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| Professor Oluremi Olutimo, President of UNA-Nigeria, |
●Applauds Leadership Response
The United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNA-Nigeria) has made a passionate call for an end to the recurring violence in Benue State, urging all stakeholders to work towards the restoration of peace, security, and the preservation of human dignity.
In a strongly worded statement, the President of UNA-Nigeria, Professor Oluremi Olutimo, condemned the “one too many” killings that have plagued the state in recent weeks. Olutimo expressed heartfelt sympathy to the people and government of Benue, describing the attacks as not only “avoidable” but a tragic affront to the sanctity of life.
Calling on Nigerians to embrace unity and tolerance, Olutimo stressed that such acts of brutality have no place in a country that prides itself on religious values. “We must come together to reaffirm the value of every human life and ensure that such atrocities are never repeated,” he said.
The UNA-Nigeria President commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visit to Benue, noting it as a significant gesture of leadership and compassion. “Leadership is defined by action in critical moments—and the President’s presence in Benue sent a strong message of empathy and national solidarity,” Olutimo remarked.
Highlighting Benue’s strategic importance as the nation’s “food basket,” he warned that continued instability could have a ripple effect on Nigeria’s food security. “We must safeguard the state, not only for its people but for the sustenance of our nation,” he added.
Olutimo also extended support to Governor Hyacinth Alia and called for calm and constructive leadership at all levels. He emphasised the urgent need for mentoring youth away from divisive rhetoric and towards peacebuilding, warning that ignorance and incitement only inflame existing tensions.
Reaffirming UNA-Nigeria’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Olutimo stated, “Peace, justice, and strong institutions form the backbone of national progress. We must stand united in rejecting violence in all its forms.”
The UNA-Nigeria’s boss concluded with a resolute appeal: “Let us replace bitterness with reconciliation, hatred with understanding. As a nation under one God, we must reject the path of destruction and choose unity and peace.”
