A solemn gathering marked the unveiling of the Yelewata Genocide Memorial Monument on Friday, as community members, church leaders and international advocates paid tribute to victims of the June 13 and 14, 2025 attacks on Yelewata, a farming community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The monument was unveiled by the Chief Executive Officer of Equipping the Persecuted (ETP), Mr Judd Saul, and facilitated by legal practitioner and Knight of Columbus, Franc Utoo.
According to organisers, the memorial bears the names of more than 270 victims reportedly killed during the attacks and was erected to ensure their memories are permanently preserved.
Speaking during the ceremony, Saul described the monument as a symbol of remembrance and a call for greater attention to the plight of affected communities.
He said the memorial was intended to honour those who lost their lives and to reinforce ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at ending violence and supporting victims.
Saul reaffirmed Equipping the Persecuted’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, solidarity with affected communities and engagement with policymakers internationally on issues relating to violence 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 resettle displaced persons away from their ancestral communities.
According to the bishop, returning displaced residents to their ancestral lands remains the most sustainable long-term solution to the crisis.
He argued that permanent relocation could raise questions about ownership and access to ancestral farmlands and community heritage.
Bishop Anagbe also commended ETP for its support to victims and vulnerable communities affected by violence.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Franc Utoo said the monument serves as a historical record and a reminder of the human cost of violence.
According to him, preserving the names of victims ensures future generations remember what happened and reinforces the need to prevent similar tragedies.
The unveiling forms part of activities marking the first anniversary of the attacks.
A memorial service is expected to be held on June 13, led by Bishop Anagbe alongside bishops, priests and pastors in honour of those who lost their lives.
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