Prominent Nigerian celebrities have joined the nationwide outcry over the renewed wave of violence in Benue State.
Actress Kate Henshaw, comedian Ayo Makun (popularly known as AY), rapper Olamide, and other stars have called on the federal government and security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to stop the bloodshed.
Their collective voices echo the growing frustration and grief sweeping through the country as reports of killings and attacks continue to emerge from the troubled state.
AY: “We cannot ignore this tragedy”
Comedian AY took to Instagram to share his concern over the worsening crisis. He emphasised the need for unity in the face of tragedy.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering happening in our homeland. It’s time for us to stand together,” he wrote.
AY stressed that the loss of innocent lives is not just a local issue but a national tragedy. He called for immediate dialogue, reconciliation, and a long-lasting solution that fosters peace and mutual respect.
“Violence brings only fear and sorrow,” he added. “The time has come for government, leaders, and everyday Nigerians to demand peace, justice, and security for all.”
MI Abaga: “We can’t normalize this pain”
Rapper and music executive Jude Abaga, better known as MI, also expressed heartbreak over the killings. In a deeply emotional post, he mourned the lives lost and urged Nigerians not to become numb to the violence.
“My heart is heavy,” MI wrote. “It grieves me to see so much of the Middle Belt bleed. These aren’t just numbers; these are people. Families. Communities.”
He urged citizens and leaders alike to break the cycle of violence, remember the dead, and support the living.
“To those we’ve lost: we will not forget you. To those still standing, we stand with you,” he concluded.
Mr. Macaroni slams federal govt inaction
Actor and activist Mr. Macaroni expressed anger over the government’s slow response. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote in disbelief:
“Over 200 Nigerians killed in Benue!!! 200 PEOPLE!!!!! 200!!!!!! I don’t think we understand the gravity of this barbarism!!! What exactly is the Government doing??? 200 PEOPLE??? Just like that!!!!”
His comments reflect the deepening public frustration over perceived inaction by authorities, even as the death toll rises.
Falz accuses the President of failure
Singer and activist Falz, known for using music to address social issues, also weighed in. He directly criticised the President for failing to protect citizens.
“You have consistently shown that you are incapable of performing the primary duty of securing lives and property of your citizens,” he wrote on X.. “This routine statement does not cut it.”
Falz, son of renowned lawyer Femi Falana, added, “Over 200 senselessly slain and burnt alive in Benue, and this is not even getting close to enough attention. Why are we so wicked to ourselves?”
Ayra Starr and Kate Henshaw join the awareness drive
Pop star Ayra Starr initially faced backlash for posting unrelated content while the killings were trending. However, she later joined others in raising awareness by reposting tweets highlighting the atrocities. One of the posts she shared described the brutal murder of children as they slept.
Actress Kate Henshaw, known for her outspoken stance on national issues, also used her social media to amplify calls for peace. One tweet she reposted questioned the nation’s value for human life, especially in light of the ongoing violence in Benue.
Just days earlier, on June 12, Henshaw criticised Nigeria’s democratic system, saying it had failed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
A nation in mourning
The renewed killings in Benue State have sparked widespread grief, anger, and calls for accountability. With celebrities joining the conversation, there is renewed hope that public pressure might force action.
Also, celebrities like 2Face, Sabinus, and Borisky have reacted too.
As more voices speak out, the question remains: will those in power finally take the necessary steps to bring peace to Benue and justice to its people?
Religion leaders also show their supports and feelings towards the massacre like, Apostle Femi Lazarus, Dr Paul Enenche, Apostle Johnson Suleman, Pastor Paul Adefarasin.
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