Nigerian music icon Innocent “2Baba” Idibia has called for urgent and united action over the renewed wave of killings in Benue State, describing the situation as a “national emergency.”
In an emotional video posted on Instagram, the Benue-born singer expressed frustration and sorrow over the incessant bloodshed in his home state, where over 100 people were reportedly killed in fresh attacks by suspected herders in Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma LGA, with another 25 slain in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa in Makurdi LGA.
“What is going on in my state has become a national emergency,” 2Baba said. “It has to stop. This is not child’s play. It’s becoming ridiculous.”
He added:
“My heart is heavy. I am terribly sad, terribly angry. What is happening in Benue has gone beyond mere condemnation. Serious action needs to be taken.”
The 49-year-old called for collective involvement of all stakeholders to address the crisis.
Public Figures Join the Outcry
2Baba’s remarks have sparked wider reactions. Rapper Olamide reposted the video with the message: “Prayers up for Benue.”
Comedian Ayo Makun (AY) wrote on Instagram:
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering happening in our homeland. It’s time for us to stand together.”
Pastor Femi Lazarus and media personality Bobrisky also weighed in, the latter condemning lawmakers’ priorities, stating:
“Senators didn’t call an urgent meeting over the killings in Benue… but they can call an urgent meeting when it comes to Bobrisky. Shame!!!!”
Widespread Violence and Protest
The fresh killings have triggered street protests in Makurdi, where angry youths gathered at the Wurukum roundabout, demanding justice and condemning the silence of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. Influencer VeryDarkMan (Martin Otse) joined the demonstrators in solidarity.
The June 14 assault on Yelewata alone claimed at least 59 lives, including military and civil defence personnel. The attack follows similar massacres in Ukum and Logo (April) and Gwer West (May), where more than 100 people were killed collectively.
National and International Condemnation
The violence has drawn criticism from across the country and abroad. Pope Leo XIV condemned the killings as a “terrible massacre” and urged the Nigerian government to seek justice.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar also blasted the Federal Government’s handling of the crisis, calling for immediate and decisive action.
Government Response
Governor Hyacinth Alia defended the government’s efforts during an interview on Channels Television, insisting that President Tinubu has supported the state, citing the deployment of federal security units and reclaiming of seized local governments.
“Seventeen local governments were under siege. We brought that number down to three,” the governor stated, attributing the ongoing attacks partly to porous borders and foreign militia groups.
He also noted a shift in the nature of violence, stating:
“They come with no cattle. They attack, kill, and then others return to occupy the land.”
Presidential Visit Planned
President Bola Tinubu has announced plans to visit Benue State on Wednesday, following mounting public pressure. Speaking at the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project inauguration on Monday, Tinubu said he would adjust his schedule to personally condole with the victims and their communities.
As Benue continues to reel from repeated assaults, many Nigerians echo 2Baba’s call: that now is the time for decisive action—not words.
