By Daniel Zendesha 

Pope Leo XIV has called on the Federal Government to urgently protect vulnerable communities in Benue State from recurring violent attacks, expressing solidarity with victims and families affected by insecurity in the state.

The appeal was made during the unveiling of a 14-foot memorial wall in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, marking one year since the deadly June 13, 2025 attack that claimed hundreds of lives.

In a statement delivered on his behalf by the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, the Pope assured the people of Yelewata of continued prayers and support while urging political leaders and stakeholders across party lines to work together to find lasting solutions to the insecurity affecting Benue communities.

The memorial wall, completed through the efforts of American missionaries led by Judd Saul, bears the names of 271 victims killed in the attack. Those honoured include 122 men, 83 women, and 66 children.

Speaking during the event, Bishop Anagbe conveyed the Pope's message of compassion and solidarity with survivors and bereaved families, stressing the need for urgent measures to safeguard communities vulnerable to violent attacks.

The memorial project also included the distribution of food items and other relief materials to affected residents as part of broader humanitarian support initiatives.

Organisers said the initiative forms part of wider international efforts aimed at supporting communities affected by violence and displacement across Nigeria.

The Yelewata attack remains one of the deadliest incidents recorded in Benue State in recent years, drawing national and international attention to the persistent security challenges facing rural communities.

The unveiling of the memorial wall served both as a tribute to those who lost their lives and as a renewed call for stronger protection measures, justice for victims, and sustainable peace across the state.