Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has called out both the Nigerian Federal Government and the Benue State Government for failing to prosecute suspects involved in a series of violent killings in Benue.
In a statement via the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), Falana accused authorities of treating arrested suspects “like sacred cows,” as many remain unprosecuted despite publicized arrests.
Falana Demands Action
Falana urged Benue Attorney-General Fidelis Mnyim to take swift legal action, insisting justice must no longer be delayed.
This comes after President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to the police to arrest and prosecute the attackers behind the latest killings in Benue, a move Falana described as “symbolic,” given past failures.
Arrests Without Justice
Falana cited several unresolved cases:
- 273 suspects arrested for capital crimes in Dec 2024
- Discovery of an illegal gun factory in Jan 2025
- Arrest of herdsmen linked to 11 killings in Otukpo (April)
- 43 suspects arrested in just the last 10 days
Despite these developments, no major convictions have followed.
Blame-Shifting and Silence
Falana also criticised Defence Chief General Christopher Musa for blaming Yelwata residents for “harbouring criminals,” calling it an unjust attack on victims.
“Justice continues to elude victims despite clear evidence and confessions,” Falana said.
