Benue killings: IGP orders reinforcement, vows justice for victims

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Monday visited Benue State in the wake of recent attacks that claimed the lives of scores of residents.

Accompanied by senior police officers including Deputy Inspectors-General of Police Yakubu Kwazhi (Operations) and Adebola Ayinde Hamzat (Logistics & Supply), Assistant Inspector-General Zachariah Fera (Zone 4), and Commissioner of Police, Special Investigation Squad, Abayomi Shogunle, the IGP arrived to assess the situation and coordinate response efforts.

During a visit to the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, the IGP commiserated with Governor Hyacinth Alia over the tragic incidents. He described the killings as “senseless” and “an act of terrorism,” assuring the governor of the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore normalcy in the affected communities.

Governor Alia expressed appreciation for the visit and acknowledged the consistent deployment of personnel and tactical assets by the Force.

Egbetokun also visited Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area, one of the worst-hit areas, where he inspected the extent of destruction and interacted with local leaders. He was joined by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. The IGP reassured residents of improved security measures and announced the immediate deployment of additional tactical teams and assets to the state.

The IGP directed DIG Yakubu Kwazhi to take full charge of the operations in Benue State, with a clear mandate to restore peace and stability.

Concluding his visit, Egbetokun addressed officers and men of the Benue State Police Command at the Officers’ Mess, promising enhanced welfare and logistical support to enable them confront security challenges in the state.