In a swift response to the escalating violence and mass killings in Benue State, the Federal Government has deployed special security forces—including the military, police, and intelligence units—to take immediate control of the deteriorating security situation.
The deployment follows a fresh directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who expressed deep concern over what he described as “wanton killings” across the state. “Enough is now enough,” the President declared, calling on Benue political leaders, including Governor Hyacinth Alia, to set aside their differences and support security efforts through cooperation, dialogue, and reconciliation.
This urgent intervention comes after a weekend of brutal attacks in the Yelewata and Daudu communities of Guma Local Government Area, where over 200 people, including women, children, and five security personnel, were reportedly murdered by suspected terrorists. These atrocities were preceded by another deadly incident in Makurdi Local Government, where at least 25 people were killed.
Outraged by the continued bloodshed, hundreds of aggrieved youths took to the streets in Makurdi, blocking major highways to demand urgent federal intervention. Protest leader Brahms Ikuan criticized the government’s slow response and warned that “Benue is dying” if urgent and decisive action is not taken. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for the victims, urging justice and lasting peace in the region.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who had earlier relocated to Benue, is now coordinating police operations in the state. However, this latest presidential mandate signals a more robust and centralized approach to halting the crisis.
Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed the arrival of the special forces and the reinforcement of security in vulnerable communities. He strongly condemned the massacres and assured residents of intensified collaboration between state officials and federal security agencies to find a permanent solution.
Despite assurances by the Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, that tactical teams are “on top of the situation,” tensions escalated when police used tear gas to disperse the protesting youths in Makurdi. Viral videos showed protesters fleeing the scene as canisters exploded and a police helicopter hovered menacingly overhead.
Former Governor Gabriel Suswam and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have both condemned the violence, calling for a coordinated response. Atiku demanded a transparent investigation and compensation for the victims, while the Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) called for a “total war” against the killer gangs.
President Tinubu has also denounced inflammatory comments from political and community leaders, warning that such rhetoric only deepens the crisis. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and justice for all affected communities in Benue State.
