The Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State has appealed to the state government to rebuild their homes and market after the June 13, 2025 massacre that claimed over 200 lives.
Armed herdsmen reportedly invaded the community that day, killing men, women, and children, and setting houses, market stalls, and other properties on fire.
During a press briefing in Yelewata on Thursday, community leader and spokesman, Matthew Mnyan, who was joined by elders, women, and youth leaders, described the hardship faced by survivors.
“We have suffered too much,” Mnyan said. “We lost over 200 of our people in one day. Our houses were burnt, our market was destroyed, and families have been scattered. It is time to rebuild our community and bring our people back home.”
The leaders urged the state government to use donations received after the killings to provide at least 100 units of two-bedroom flats for displaced families.
“We also need our market rebuilt so our people can return to economic activities and start their lives again,” Mnyan added.
They further demanded cash support for victims to start small businesses and the establishment of a mobile police station to improve security.
“The rebuilding of our market is vital,” Mnyan stressed. “Without it, there is no economic life in Yelewata. We also need security; a mobile police station here will make our people feel safe.”
