President Bola Tinubu has proposed the creation of a leadership committee to develop a strategy for lasting peace in Benue State, following a wave of violent attacks that have killed more than 100 people in recent days.

Speaking during a town hall meeting with political leaders in Makurdi on Wednesday, Tinubu said his administration is ready to support efforts to end the persistent conflict between farmers and herders in the state. He emphasised the need for unity and cooperation among leaders in the region, saying peace cannot be achieved in isolation.

“I want us to create a leadership committee now to meet in Abuja to fashion out a strategy for lasting peace,” he told the gathering, which included current and former governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and party stakeholders. “I am ready to invest in that peace.”

The President addressed Governor Hyacinth Alia directly, advising him to collaborate with his predecessors regardless of political rivalry.

“Your political enemies don’t want you to succeed. Are you just realising that?” Tinubu asked, before stressing that political divisions should not stand in the way of resolving the security crisis.

He noted that he often reflects on public criticism, which he said can offer valuable insights into governance.

“No matter what I do, they will insult me,” Tinubu said. “I read the papers and I learn from their criticism because I can’t see it all.”

While acknowledging that land disputes have been cited as a driver of the violence, Tinubu urged communities to adopt a more cooperative approach.

“We have enough land to share, to cultivate happiness and prosperity. We must do it,” he said. “Take a look at our national anthem again. It says we want to hand over to the next generation a banner without stain. We must work towards that.”

Tinubu’s visit comes days after suspected armed herders stormed the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, killing scores and displacing hundreds. The President toured the area and met with victims earlier in the day before holding the town hall meeting.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with state and community leaders to restore order and stability.