U.S. Congressional Delegation Express Solidarity with Benue State Over Recent Killings

A delegation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and staff from the United States Congress has expressed deep sympathy with the people of Benue State following recent attacks in Yelwata and other areas.

The team, currently on a fact-finding mission in Nigeria, said the situation in Benue is being closely followed in Washington, D.C.

“Our hearts go out to you,” said Jessie Ainslie of the UNHCR, who led the delegation during a visit to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi. “Reports of the attacks have reached Washington, and I can confirm that Americans are monitoring developments here very closely.”

The delegation, comprising eight congressional staff members, is assessing humanitarian needs and evaluating the impact of U.S. assistance in Nigeria. Before arriving in Benue, they visited Borno State and are expected to return to Abuja after their engagements.

Deputy Governor Sam Ode, who received the delegation on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, expressed appreciation for their concern and commitment to understanding the crisis firsthand. He highlighted their visit to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp at the Makurdi International Market as a testament to international solidarity.

“This visit demonstrates genuine concern and support for our people,” Ode said. He emphasized the state government’s transparency in humanitarian efforts and its readiness to work with international partners.

Ode also addressed the root causes of the violence, clarifying that the conflict in Benue is largely driven by land-use disputes between herders and farmers, not religious differences. He cited increasing land scarcity and outdated grazing methods as contributing factors, and reiterated the state’s stance on ranching as a sustainable and globally accepted solution.

He added, “The President has instructed security agencies to decisively deal with criminal elements regardless of their background. We support the federal government and security forces in their efforts to restore lasting peace.”

Jessie Ainslie commended the Benue State Government’s support for displaced persons, particularly the allocation of farmland to help them rebuild their livelihoods.

“This is a strong example of how displaced communities can recover and contribute to the economy,” she said.

The delegation also plans to visit Tartyo in Guma Local Government Area to meet with communities involved in peacebuilding initiatives, with a focus on enabling the safe and dignified return of displaced residents.