By Chioma Obinna

The Queen of the Rosary Old Girls Association, QROGA, on Tuesday condemned the spate of killings in Benue State, describing them as acts of ethnic cleansing and land grabbing by terrorist herders.

In an open letter signed by its National President, Monica Hemben Eimunjeze, the association decried the brutal and senseless attacks on innocent citizens, which have left communities in mourning and displaced thousands.

The statement reads: “These killings are not just unjustifiable; they amount to an outright assault on the lives and dignity of our people. 

“The victims’ families, the affected communities—many of whom have sought refuge in shelters across Benue—and the nation at large are grappling with the trauma and devastation caused by these incessant attacks.”

QROGA urged the government to take decisive steps to protect lives and ensure the safety of citizens in rural areas. 

The group demanded that perpetrators of these heinous crimes be brought to justice and called for measures to address the root causes of the violence, as well as support for affected communities.

“Concrete and immediate actions must be taken to protect lives, ensure justice, and address the systemic issues that perpetuate these attacks,” the association emphasised.

The statement also called on security agencies to increase their presence in affected areas and adopt proactive measures to prevent further violence.

“We stand united today in condemning outrightly the brutal and senseless killings perpetrated by terrorist herders in Benue State,.

“We appeal to all people of good conscience, the State and National Assembly representatives, the Benue State Government, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the international community to act swiftly to address this carnage,” QROGA said.

As an alumni association of Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Gboko, located in the heart of Benue State, QROGA emphasised its deep connection to the state and its moral responsibility to advocate for peace and justice.

The association expressed solidarity with the people of Benue, commending their resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable adversity.

“To the people of Benue State, we stand with you. We recognise your resilience and courage. We will continue to amplify your voices, advocate for your rights, and demand justice for the victims of these attacks.”

QROGA reiterated its belief that every citizen has the right to live without fear of violence and called for an environment where justice and accountability prevail.

The association affirmed its commitment to standing with the people of Benue and ensuring that their plight remains in focus until lasting solutions are achieved.