The United Nations has assured residents of Yelewata and other victims of conflicts and disasters of its support to return not only to their ancestral homes but also with dignity.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), Dr. Amina Mohammed, gave the assurance on Friday during a visit to Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
It was reported that the community was attacked on June 13, 2025, leaving scores dead and many properties destroyed.
Mohammed stated that people in Benue and across Nigeria must live and work in a safe and secure environment.
She said her visit was to stand in solidarity with the state, especially women and children who suffer the most during conflicts.
She added that her visit also expressed solidarity with the Yelewata community, which experienced a tragic incident.
Mohammed described the June 13 attack as a painful moment that must never be allowed to happen again.
She stressed that the government must do everything possible to ensure that farmers can operate in a safe environment.
“It is not right that you must farm under unsafe conditions.
“Instead, we must find ways to bring farming closer to you and ensure that your produce reaches markets that reflect your dignity—markets befitting the people of Yelewata and Benue,” she said.
According to her, Benue has long been known as the food basket of the nation, expressing hope that the state would reclaim that identity.
“I have listened carefully to all that you have said about your hopes and needs. Many of you wish to return home, because home is truly where the heart is.
“We face challenges in our country. I remember when this area was part of Benue-Plateau before it was divided into Benue, Nasarawa, and Plateau states. There were no boundaries; it was one community.
“Back then, even as a Fulani woman among Tiv people, we lived more closely and harmoniously than we do today. It pains me to see how things have changed.
“We must return to that unity as Nigerians, embracing the richness of our diversity in religion and culture. It is not impossible.
“Those of us who remember Nigeria at independence must speak to the younger generation about what this country once was and what it can be again.
“Without that shared vision, we risk losing our collective future,” she said.
Mohammed also expressed commitment to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable, especially women and children.
She noted that across the Sahel, West Africa, Sudan, and Gaza, conflicts continue to cause suffering for innocent people.
“Let this be our tribute to those who lost their lives—that we will build a better community, a better Benue, and a better Nigeria, where all citizens are equal.
“As a Nigerian and as UN Deputy Secretary-General, I am committed to ensuring your voices are heard.
“Without peace, we cannot return to our farms. Without peace, our economy cannot grow. Without peace, the 70 per cent of our population who are young people will have no future.
“We must also hold our politicians accountable. Peace is what we demand; that is why we vote,” she said.
Earlier, Gov. Hyacinth Alia directed the immediate reopening of the Yelewata Market for commercial activities.
He acknowledged the contributions of the UN and its agencies in addressing the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Benue.
The governor said insecurity was threatening peace and unity in the country, particularly in Benue, and commended Mohammed for visiting the state.
