By Andy Nomsoor

Residents of Yelewata Community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State are preparing to unveil a memorial monument in honour of more than 200 people reportedly killed during an armed attack on the community in June 2025. The event, scheduled for June 13, 2026, will mark one year since the incident and serve as a tribute to the victims while reinforcing calls for justice and lasting peace.

A solemn remembrance ceremony is scheduled to take place in Yelewata Community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where residents will unveil and commission a monument dedicated to victims of the June 13–14, 2025 attack that claimed more than 200 lives.

According to organisers, the memorial project was facilitated by Yelewata indigene Franc Fagah Utoo, Esq., and sponsored by Equipping the Persecuted. The monument is intended to preserve the memory of those who lost their lives and stand as a symbol of solidarity with survivors.

The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Yelewata, Mbainigi, Mbanoughuul, Nyiev District, beginning at 10:00 a.m. following a Holy Mass.

The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Wilfred Anagbe Chikpa, who is expected to serve as Chief Host of the event.

In a public notification signed by Andy Nomsoor, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, members of the public were invited to attend the memorial and commissioning ceremony.

Organisers said the occasion is dedicated to remembering those who died, supporting survivors, and promoting hope for justice and a peaceful future for communities affected by violence.

The attack on Yelewata in June 2025 remains one of the most significant security incidents recorded in Benue State in recent years. The tragedy drew widespread attention to the persistent security challenges affecting rural communities and renewed debates around the protection of vulnerable populations.

Community leaders say the monument will serve as a lasting reminder of the lives lost while encouraging collective efforts toward peacebuilding, reconciliation, and the prevention of future violence.

Residents, faith-based organisations, civil society groups, and concerned Nigerians have been encouraged to participate in the remembrance event.