By Maryam Diallo Dakar
The Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), through its Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) System, has observed with deep concern the rising insecurity in parts of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, which has heightened fear, tension, and uncertainty among residents. Reports of violent incidents, attacks, and displacement continue to threaten the safety of communities and undermine efforts toward sustainable peace and development.
In a statement made available to the press on 15th July 2026 ,In which According to Rev. Michael Ijah Ikpa, Director of the Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) System, Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna, the current security situation in Benue State and the increasing political tension across parts of the country require urgent and coordinated action by government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens.
He emphasized that timely early warning, responsible leadership, and peaceful engagement remain essential to preventing further violence and protecting lives and property.
The Centre is equally concerned about the increasing political tension across Nigeria, particularly in Kaduna State following the reported death of a politician in Tudun Wada Community, Kaduna South Local Government Area. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the incident, such developments have the potential to fuel rumours, provoke reprisals, and increase political and communal mistrust if not handled professionally and transparently.
The Interfaith Mediation Centre extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of all victims affected by violence and insecurity. We pray for comfort for the bereaved, healing for the injured, and lasting peace for all affected communities.
The EWER System calls on all citizens to remain calm and law-abiding and to refrain from spreading unverified information, hate speech, or inflammatory messages capable of escalating tensions, particularly through social media platforms.
We respectfully call on the Federal Government, the Governments of Benue and Kaduna States, and all security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen community-based security mechanisms, and ensure that perpetrators of criminal acts are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Prompt, transparent, and impartial investigations into all reported incidents are essential to maintaining public confidence.
Political leaders, party supporters, religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, women leaders, and civil society organisations should continue to promote dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful engagement.
Political differences must never become a justification for violence, intimidation, or the destruction of lives and property.
The Interfaith Mediation Centre also encourages communities to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that can prevent attacks and save lives. Community vigilance, early reporting of suspicious activities, and peaceful conflict resolution remain essential tools for preventing violence.
As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, all stakeholders must uphold the principles of justice, respect for human dignity, and the rule of law. Sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to non-violence.
The Interfaith Mediation Centre reaffirms its commitment to working with government institutions, faith leaders, traditional institutions, community stakeholders, security agencies, and development partners to strengthen early warning systems, prevent violent conflicts, and promote peaceful coexistence across Nigeria.
Together, let us choose peace over violence, dialogue over confrontation, and unity over division.
Signed:
Rev. Michael Ijah Ikpa
Director, Early Warning and Early Response (EWER) System
Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), Kaduna
