One year after a deadly attack claimed the lives of 272 people, including 67 children, residents of Yelewata say they are still struggling with grief, insecurity and poverty.
During a memorial service marking the first anniversary of the June 13, 2025 massacre, survivors recounted painful memories of the attack, which left homes destroyed and hundreds dead. A memorial monument bearing the names of the victims was unveiled to honor those killed.
One survivor, Saaondo, said he narrowly escaped death after traveling to Makurdi hours before the attackers struck.
> “If I had been around that night, I would have been among those being remembered today,” he said.
The monument was funded by Equipping The Persecuted, a US-based nonprofit organization. According to project advocates, the memorial ensures the victims will not be forgotten and preserves the names of all 272 people killed—67 children, 83 women and 122 men.
Calls for Better Security and Resettlement
The Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Wilfred Anagbe, urged governments to help displaced residents return to their ancestral communities instead of keeping them in long-term camps.
He also criticized authorities for allegedly failing to act on intelligence warnings before the attack and said displaced persons deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Senate Leader Criticizes Government Response
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro accused Nigeria's political leadership of not fully confronting the country's security challenges.
He urged elected officials to take stronger action to protect citizens and improve their welfare.
Survivors Still Facing Hardship
Community leader Matthew Mnyan said many residents remain afraid to farm or travel outside the community because of ongoing security concerns.
According to him:
Many survivors have not recovered economically.
Poverty has worsened since the attack.
Some residents still fear renewed violence.
Reports of attacks and sexual violence in surrounding areas continue to cause concern.
Mnyan also questioned how donations intended for victims have been managed and called on Hyacinth Alia to personally visit the community and assess conditions.
Government Response
Officials from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency said progress has been made in resettling displaced residents.
According to the agency:
More than 1,000 housing units have been allocated to displaced persons.
Additional land has been acquired for social infrastructure, including a hospital, market, church and mosque.
Cash assistance and relief materials have been provided to affected families.
Continuing Search for Recovery
Despite the memorial events and rebuilding efforts, many residents say the emotional and economic scars of the massacre remain deep. One year later, Yelewata's survivors continue to seek security, justice and a return to normal life.
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