Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has addressed the ongoing violence and displacement in Benue State, asserting that the issues are solvable with immediate action. In a recent social media post, Atiku highlighted a disturbing report from Amnesty International, which states that 6,896 individuals were killed in Benue during the initial two years of the Tinubu administration.

Atiku lamented the current state of Benue, often referred to as the "Food Basket of the Nation," stating, "Today, that basket is bleeding." He emphasized the human toll behind the statistics, pointing out that the violence has resulted in farmers not returning from their fields, families being uprooted from their homes, and communities living in fear.

The ADC candidate linked the violence in Benue to the rising food prices across Nigeria, arguing that the insecurity in the state has a direct impact on the cost of living for many households. He stated, "When Benue cannot farm, Nigeria cannot eat cheaply," explaining that the displacement of farmers leads to increased prices for essential staples such as yam, rice, beans, vegetables, and meat in the market.

Drawing from his personal experience as a farmer, Atiku expressed his understanding of the consequences of insecurity on agricultural production and food prices. He criticized the Tinubu administration for failing to convert increased government revenue into improved security measures, despite significant financial resources being made available following the removal of the fuel subsidy and substantial import-duty waivers.

Atiku pointed out that in 2025, the Nigeria Customs Service reported ₦34 trillion in import-duty exemption approvals, much of which was linked to military equipment. He questioned the effectiveness of these measures, asking, "Where is the security? Where are the results?" He argued that if Nigerians are expected to bear the burden of higher fuel prices for the sake of increased government resources, they should not also have to pay with their lives due to insecurity.

Emphasizing his belief in the possibility of resolving the crises through justice and peace-building, Atiku stated, "I know this crisis is solvable. I have helped broker peace between Tiv and Fulani communities before, and I remain convinced that criminality has no tribe." He called for a collective effort to punish criminals, protect farmers, and ensure the safety of livestock owners to foster peaceful coexistence.

During a recent meeting with ADC candidates for various elective positions in Benue, Atiku urged them to prioritize the lives and livelihoods of the people over political ambitions. He remarked, "Their mission must be greater than winning elections. It must be about protecting lives, restoring livelihoods, reviving the Food Basket of the Nation, and making life affordable again."

Atiku concluded by reiterating the urgent need for security in Benue, stating, "Benue should not still be paying with blood. Secure Benue. Restore the Food Basket. Make Nigeria affordable again." His call to action underscores the critical need for immediate and effective measures to address the ongoing crises in the state.