Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has expressed shock over the murder of over 200 persons in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
The attack, considered the most deadly in recent times, occurred early Saturday morning.
The invaders attacked from different locations, making rescue efforts difficult.
Some villagers were also burnt inside their homes.
Gruesome images show dead bodies littered in every part of the community.
Some of them were burnt beyond recognition.
In a statement he issued Saturday night, Atiku described the killings as devastating.
He said leaders must be held accountable.
He added that the killings “once again targeting defenceless communities, underscores the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and communities who have suffered unimaginable loss. As a nation, we must pause and reflect on the mounting human toll of this senseless violence.”
He urged the Federal Government and Benue State authorities to launch a prompt, transparent investigation into the attack.
Atiku also demanded that those behind the mayhem must be brought to justice.
“The identities of the perpetrators must be swiftly uncovered and justice served. Enhance security presence in the region, deploying necessary resources, personnel, equipment, and intelligence to guarantee the protection of vulnerable rural areas.
“Engage affected communities through dialogue, traditional leadership, and civil society to restore confidence and foster resilience.
“Accelerate compensation and support effort, including medical aid, trauma counselling, and livelihood restoration for survivors and bereaved families.
“This assault on innocent Nigerians is not just a local tragedy, it is a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action.
“I call on all Nigerians regardless of tribe or religion to unite in condemning this atrocity.
“We must hold our leaders accountable and insist on sustainable solutions to the violent tragedies claiming lives across the country,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the initial death toll of 107 has increased to over 200 as of the time of filing this report.