LAGOS, Nigeria — Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has described the spate of violence in Benue State as a “national emergency,” issuing an emotional plea for collective action following the massacre of over 200 people in Yelewata community on Saturday, 14 June, 2025.
In a sombre video message shared via Instagram on Sunday, June 15, 2025, the Benue-born singer expressed profound grief and outrage over the continued bloodshed, warning that condemnation alone is no longer enough.
“My heart is heavy. I am terribly sad and angry. What is happening in Benue State has become a national emergency,” 2Baba said, visibly shaken.
“I can’t wrap my head around it anymore. I don’t even know what to say at this point.”
“This has to stop; it has to involve everybody, every stakeholder in this country, everyone in Benue State. It’s not child’s play — it’s becoming ridiculous,” he added.
The killings in Yelewata, located in Guma Local Government Area, are among the deadliest in recent years and have triggered widespread condemnation from civil society, political leaders, and international observers.
Armed herders are alleged to have stormed the community, killing hundreds of men, women, and children in a night of terror.
2Baba, who hails from the state, noted that he has struggled to find words to express the depth of his frustration.
“I don’t know where to start expressing my sadness, grief, my anger, my frustration, because these things keep happening over and over again. This is no longer something we can just condemn in words. Serious action needs to be taken,” he said.
Calling on traditional leaders, politicians, community stakeholders, and citizens, the singer urged for coordinated efforts to end the crisis.
“Every stakeholder in Benue, we need to come together. We can end this. I believe there is a solution, we just need to be serious with the solution.”
It’s become a national emergency. What is going on in my state, Benue state…”
— 2Baba speaks
— Esen (@SemiNigerian) June 16, 2025
His appeal comes as the federal government intensifies efforts to respond to the latest attacks.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered security agencies to restore peace in the state, while the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, visited the affected area and alleged insider collusion with the attackers.
2Baba, who has long used his platform for advocacy and humanitarian work, is the latest prominent voice to call for urgent action as the humanitarian and security crisis in Benue deepens.
The situation in the state remains tense, with displaced residents mourning lost relatives and expressing fear over potential renewed attacks.