A memorial monument honoring victims of the 2025 Yelewata attacks was unveiled on Friday in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as residents, church leaders and international advocates gathered to commemorate those who lost their lives.
The Yelewata Genocide Memorial Monument was unveiled by the Chief Executive Officer of Equipping the Persecuted (ETP), Mr. Judd Saul, with support from legal practitioner and Knight of Columbus, Franc Utoo.
Organisers said the monument bears the names of more than 270 people reportedly killed during the June 13 and 14, 2025 attacks. They explained that the memorial was erected to preserve the memory of the victims and document the tragedy for future generations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Saul described the monument as both a symbol of remembrance and a call for greater attention to communities affected by violence. He said ETP would continue its advocacy efforts and humanitarian support for victims of attacks and displacement.
The ETP delegation was received by the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Rev. Wilfred Anagbe, who reiterated concerns about proposals to permanently relocate displaced residents away from their ancestral communities.
According to the bishop, the most sustainable solution is the return of displaced persons to their ancestral lands, warning that permanent resettlement elsewhere could create challenges related to land ownership, farming rights and community heritage.
Anagbe also commended ETP for its support to victims and vulnerable communities affected by violence in the state.
Utoo said the monument serves as a lasting historical record of the attacks and a reminder of the human cost of violence. He added that preserving the names of the victims would help ensure the tragedy is not forgotten.
The unveiling formed part of activities marking the first anniversary of the attacks. A memorial service is scheduled for June 13, with Bishop Anagbe, alongside bishops, priests and pastors, expected to lead prayers in honour of the victims.
