Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, President, Centre for Change has urged the Federal Government to prosecute perpetrators of violence in Benue State to ensure accountability and justice.

Okei-Odumakin made the call in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

The human rights activist condemned the killings, particularly in Yelwata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area.

She called on the government to fish out the perpetrators and bring them to book.

“The massacre is an indictment of the Nigerian military and other security agencies, considering the fact that the crisis in the area has lingered for far too long.

” This is not the time for politicking, as it could trivialise the gravity of the situation and deflect focus from the primary objective of halting the horrifying saga,” Okei-Odumakin said.

She proposed that the government at all levels should find a permanent solution to the orgy of violence that had gripped Benue State and the nation at large in recent years.

The human rights activist stressed the need for the government to prioritise the security and welfare of its citizens.

“Our position is anchored on the fact that the first responsibility of the government is the security and welfare of the people.

“We also call on the people of Benue State to rise to the occasion by assisting the relevant security agencies in whatever way they can to defeat the criminals and agents of darkness.

“I commiserate with the Government and people of Benue State over the tragic event of last weekend,” Okei-Odumakin added.

Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, President, Centre for Change