An American citizen, Mr. Alex Barbir, has visited Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where skeletal remains believed to belong to victims of past violent attacks, including women and children, were reportedly found.
The discovery is linked to the deadly attack on Yelwata between June 13 and June 14, 2025, when armed assailants invaded the predominantly farming community, killing scores of residents and forcing many others to flee their homes.
Eyewitnesses said that although the affected areas were previously cleared after the attack, human bones were still visible on the ground and could be easily picked up, underscoring the scale and brutality of the violence that struck the area.
Residents described the sight as deeply distressing, noting that it reopened painful memories of the massacre that claimed the lives of many villagers, particularly women and children. They said the lingering presence of skeletal remains reflects unresolved trauma and the deep emotional scars left behind by the attack.
Some community members drew spiritual parallels, likening the scene to the biblical Valley of Dry Bones as described in the Book of Ezekiel, which they interpreted as a symbol of hope, renewal, and restoration after widespread devastation.
Others expressed optimism that renewed international attention, including advocacy by foreign individuals and global leaders, could help draw greater focus to the persistent insecurity in Benue State and contribute to preventing future attacks.
The residents called on government authorities at all levels, as well as humanitarian and civil society organisations, to intensify efforts toward justice, improved security, and psychosocial healing for victims and affected families, stressing that lasting peace remains elusive without accountability and sustained support.
