VeryDarkMan Blasts Nigerian Government over Benue Massacre, Says Herdsmen Bigger Than the President
Popular Nigerian social media critic and activist, VeryDarkMan, has openly condemned the Nigerian government over its weak response to the recent massacre in Benue State, where over 200 people were reportedly burnt alive by suspected herdsmen in the Yelwata community of Guma Local Government Area.
The horrifying incident, which has drawn international outrage, has reignited fears over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. The mass killing, described by Pope Leo as a “terrible massacre,” has provoked strong reactions across the country, but VeryDarkMan believes the government is downplaying the crisis and failing the people of Benue.
While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu issued a statement urging the Benue State government to engage the attackers in dialogue and reconciliation, VeryDarkMan strongly criticised the move. He called the president’s directive shocking and dismissive, suggesting that the herdsmen wield more power than even the federal government.
Reacting in a viral video, he said, “The president’s call for dialogue with these killers shows they are far bigger than him. These are people burning innocent Nigerians alive, and yet, the response is dialogue? That tells you the truth — they are bigger than APC, PDP, and every political force in Nigeria.”
The outspoken activist pointed to what he believes is a widespread cover-up by top security officials. He questioned the silence and perceived inaction of the National Security Adviser, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chiefs of Army and Defense Staff.
“It’s a joke — a clown show — for anyone to say they don’t know what is going on in Benue. These killers entered communities with gallons of fuel, AK-47s, and no one stopped them? Where were the checkpoints, the surveillance? They knew. The problem is that no one wants to say the truth,” he fumed.
VeryDarkMan, who joined protesting Benue youths in Makurdi on Sunday, said he personally shared footage from the massacre scene, which prompted more Nigerians to start reacting to the tragedy. He lamented that the loss of over 200 lives barely made headlines or sparked outrage until he posted the disturbing visuals online.
“What scares me is that people are now used to hearing about Benue killings. It doesn’t shock anyone anymore. Two hundred people died and it didn’t trend. That’s why I had to go and show it — so people wake up,” he said.
The activist warned that the killings were far from over and called on Benue residents, especially farmers, to take up licensed arms to defend themselves. According to him, the situation has escalated beyond what government intervention can resolve.
“It’s time for protest and action. Every farmer in Benue needs a gun with a license. They need protection. This is no longer about government intervention — it’s about survival,” he declared.
His comments have sparked fresh conversations about Nigeria’s security crisis, the government’s capacity to tackle violent attacks, and the continued silence over long-running herdsmen-farmer clashes, particularly in the North Central region.
As more Nigerians speak out and protests continue, the question remains: how long will the government treat recurring mass killings as routine, and when will justice truly be served for victims like those in Yelwata?
Tips and Recommendations:
- The government must prioritize urgent security reforms and prosecute known perpetrators.
- Independent investigations into the Yelwata killings should be launched immediately.
- Social media users are urged to use their platforms to amplify the voices of affected communities.
- Civil society groups should continue to pressure for justice and increased security presence in Benue.
- Communities should seek lawful means of self-defense while demanding protection from the state.