Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines, accompanied by our advocacy-driven demands for government action in addressing citizens’ concerns.

1. Daily Trust: Family Loses 23 Members as Many Killed in Benue Attack

Tsegba Gbam Ayua is one of many residents reeling from the aftermath of armed invaders’ attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, which claimed the lives of scores, including his wife and four children.

Our Take: The massacre is a grim reminder that the protection of lives and property which is government’s most basic duty, is still dangerously elusive in parts of Nigeria. This tragedy must jolt the federal and state governments into action beyond condolence statements and press briefings. Security must be proactive, not reactive.

2. Punch: Senate pledges electoral reform, constitutional review ahead of 2027

The Senate has assured Nigerians to look forward to the reform of the electoral system and review of the 1999 Constitution, among others, as the second half of the 10th National Assembly kicks off.

Our Take: As the Senate rolls out another round of well-polished promises about electoral and constitutional reforms, Nigerians must treat these sweet assurances with cautious optimism, after all, we’ve been here before, clapping for committees and ending up with recycled bills. This time, citizens must move beyond passive listening and actively demand reforms that genuinely safeguard our votes, fix our broken justice system, and close the loopholes politicians conveniently ignore.

3. The Nation: Special forces deployed to battle terrorists in Benue

Special security forces yesterday landed in Benue State to battle terrorists and halt the spate of killings and other forms of violence across the local governments.

Our Take: While the deployment of special forces to Benue State is a necessary step toward restoring peace, it must not end at chasing shadows, justice must follow closely behind. The federal government must ensure that those responsible for the killings and violence are not only apprehended but also publicly identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Victims and their families deserve more than silence and sympathy, they deserve accountability. Security operations must go hand in hand with transparent investigations and regular public updates so that justice is not only done but seen to be done.