TDA powerful statement by Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo has drawn attention to the plight of Yeltawa, a community in Benue State devastated by violent attacks allegedly carried out by armed groups.
According to Dachomo, the community was burnt down, destroyed, and left in ruins, yet both state and federal authorities failed to provide aid or initiate rebuilding efforts.
Rev. Dachomo criticized the government’s response, noting that even the president did not visit the community.
He recounted that the president reportedly excused his absence by citing poor road conditions and heavy rainfall.
The lack of official intervention, Dachomo argued, has left survivors of the attack feeling abandoned and neglected.
Government Inaction, Missionary Steps In
In stark contrast, Dachomo praised Alex Babir, a missionary from the United States.
Babir personally financed the rebuilding of Yeltawa.
He reportedly constructed 35 houses for displaced residents, using his own resources to restore shelter and dignity to the community.
“Alex Babir, a beloved son of God, left his comfort in the US and spent his hard-earned money to rebuild the community of Yeltawa,” Dachomo wrote.
Opposition and Threats
Despite his humanitarian efforts, Babir has allegedly faced opposition, ridicule, propaganda, and threats against his life.
Dachomo condemned this hostility, contrasting Babir’s sacrifice with the perceived indifference of Nigerian leaders, influencers, and celebrities.
“What Nigerian influencers, politicians, leaders and celebrities couldn’t do, they’d rather spend billions on frivolous lifestyle, Alex Babir did it,” he stated.
Dachomo stated:
“How do you explain that Fulani Jihadists and Terrorists burnt down, destroyed and annihilate the people of Yeltawa, a community in Benue state and the government did nothing… provided no aid nor rebuilt the community.
“Alex Babir, a beloved son of God, and missionary, left his comfort in the US and spent his hard-earned money to rebuild the community of Yeltawa, with 35 houses for the displaced people.
“Instead of applaud and support from the government or both state and federal, guess what he got?
“Opposition and ridicule and propaganda and threats against his life.”
A Call for Moral Leadership
Rev. Dachomo’s remarks went beyond criticism of government inaction, framing the issue as a moral and spiritual crisis.
He described Nigeria’s leadership as “evil that must be cast out with a superior power of Jesus Christ.”
He expressed gratitude to Babir for his courage and generosity, offering prayers for continued grace and protection.
“Alex, if you’re seeing this, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. More grace and glory upon your life, in Jesus name,” Dachomo concluded.
Broader Implications
The Yeltawa tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about insecurity in Benue State and the wider Middle Belt region, where communities have repeatedly suffered violent attacks.
The contrasting responses—government silence versus missionary intervention—underscore the challenges of governance, accountability, and humanitarian support in conflict-affected areas.
As residents of Yeltawa begin to rebuild their lives, the episode raises pressing questions about the role of leadership.
It also brings to the fore the responsibility of the state, and the power of individual action in times of crisis.
