In a poignant expression of despair, human rights activist and legal practitioner Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor has lamented the ongoing wave of violence sweeping across Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, despite assurances of peace from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a recent statement on social media, Ejiofor condemned the federal government's failure to protect its citizens, highlighting the alarming rise in attacks that continue to plague communities in states like Benue, Plateau, and Zamfara.
Ejiofor’s remarks come at a time when the Nigerian government has faced increasing scrutiny over its handling of insecurity. The activist pointed to recent visits by President Tinubu to affected areas, which he characterized as ineffective. “It is a slap on the presidency that just after the president promised peace and security in the North Central, the bloodshed resumed with no resistance from state actors,” he wrote on his X handle.
The situation in Benue has become particularly dire, with Ejiofor detailing the relentless violence that has turned communities into war zones. “From Guma to Agatu, Makurdi to Logo, and now Tarka—Benue bleeds daily. Yet, those in power remain unmoved by the bloodshed, the wailing, and the raging fires,” he stated. Recent reports indicate that the Wannune community was hit hard, with residents attacked “like ghosts in the night,” homes set ablaze, and families displaced as farms lay in ruins.
The unrest in Nigeria's northern regions is indicative of a larger crisis that has plagued the nation for years. Recent statistics from the Nigeria Security Tracker show a significant uptick in the number of fatalities due to violent attacks, with thousands displaced from their homes over the past several months. While the federal government has announced various initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security, critics argue that these measures have been largely superficial and fail to address the root causes of the violence.
Ejiofor's voice resonates with many Nigerians who feel trapped in a cycle of violence that has been normalized over time. “But this is not just about Benue,” he warned. “It’s about a country where death has become normalized, where government presence is reduced to press statements, and where citizens have turned to heaven because the state has failed them on earth.”
In an evocative rhetorical question, Ejiofor challenged the very foundation of governance in Nigeria: “Who truly owns Nigeria? The people who vote, pay taxes, and die in silence? Or the political predators who show up for photo ops and disappear when blood is spilled?” This inquiry encapsulates the growing frustration among the populace—a demographic that increasingly questions the accountability of their leaders.
It is important to note, however, that the government maintains that it is committed to addressing the security challenges facing the nation. In response to the criticisms, a government spokesperson stated, “The administration is aware of the challenges and is working tirelessly to implement measures that will ensure the safety of all Nigerians. Recent operations have been undertaken to enhance the safety of vulnerable communities.”
Despite these assurances, the recurring violence has left many unconvinced, leading to calls for a more robust and effective response from the authorities. Ejiofor concluded with an urgent plea for change: “Until we are led by those who fear God, value human life, and govern with conscience, Nigeria will continue to rot—not just in infrastructure, but in soul. Right now, Benue is crying, Plateau is bleeding, Zamfara is burning, Kaduna is caged, and Nigeria is on her knees. Enough is enough.”
As the situation continues to unfold, the need for immediate and concerted action from the Nigerian government becomes increasingly clear. The voices of activists like Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor are essential in holding leaders accountable and reminding citizens of their right to safety and security. In this time of crisis, one can only hope for a future where the cries of the suffering are met with meaningful action rather than empty promises.