The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has reiterated the Federal Government’s unwavering determination to end the persistent killings in Benue State and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Egbetokun made this known during his visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi on Monday, where he emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s deep concern over the violence, especially the recent deadly attack in Yelewata, a border town, allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen.
The assault resulted in the deaths of several residents over the weekend, heightening fears across the state.
According to Egbetokun, President Tinubu has instructed security chiefs to act decisively by enforcing previous directives aimed at restoring security and ensuring sustainable peace in the region.
The President also tasked the state governor with initiating reconciliation dialogues among all parties involved in the ongoing conflicts. The goal, he said, is to end the cycle of violence and promote peaceful and harmonious coexistence among herders, farmers, and local communities.
“President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the killings in Benue, which not only threaten lives and property but also challenge our national sovereignty,” Egbetokun noted during the meeting.
Governor Alia, in response, expressed appreciation for the swift response from the Presidency and the country’s security apparatus. He acknowledged the renewed security operations and their impact in curbing violence but expressed worries about the persistent threats to lives and livelihoods in rural communities.
“The efforts of the security agencies are commendable, but the scale and frequency of these attacks remain a serious concern. We must intensify our strategies to safeguard every citizen,” the governor said.
After the meeting, the IGP proceeded to Yelewata, the scene of the most recent violence, to conduct a firsthand assessment of the situation. The visit is expected to inform stronger measures for preventing future attacks and reinforcing security presence in volatile areas of Benue State.
What you should know
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to ending the killings in Benue State.
This follows a brutal attack in Yelewata over the weekend, allegedly by herdsmen, which left several dead. President Tinubu has directed security agencies to act swiftly and called for reconciliation talks among farmers, herders, and affected communities.
During his visit to Makurdi, Egbetokun assured the public of action and proceeded to Yelewata for an on-the-ground assessment. Governor Alia welcomed the federal response but urged for more effective security strategies to protect vulnerable communities.
