Pope Leo XIV Calls on the Federal Government to Protect Benue's Vulnerable Communities in Yelewata

Pope Leo XIV has called on the Nigerian government to urgently protect vulnerable communities in Benue State from ongoing violent attacks.

The appeal was made during the inauguration of a 14‑foot memorial wall that marks the first anniversary of the victims killed in Yelewata on June 13, 2025.

In a statement delivered on his behalf by Wilfred Anagbe, the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with the people of Yelewata and pledged continued prayers. He also urged leaders across political and party lines to collaborate on lasting solutions to the insecurity affecting Benue State.

The memorial structure, completed and unveiled with the help of American missionaries led by Judd Saul, also included the distribution of relief materials such as food and other essential supplies.

This initiative is part of broader international efforts to support communities affected by recurring attacks in different parts of Nigeria.

Names of 271 victims are engraved on the wall, comprising 122 men, 83 women, and 66 children who lost their lives in the incident.