The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has arrived in Benue State following a devastating attack in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected herdsmen reportedly burned nearly 250 people alive.
According to a statement released on the Nigeria Police Force's official Facebook page on Monday, the IGP has "ordered for additional deployment of tactical teams" to address the escalating security crisis in the region.
Details of the Attack
The brutal attack occurred in Yelewata community near Makurdi, the state capital, where suspected Fulani herdsmen targeted unsuspecting citizens, burning them alive in what has become one of the deadliest incidents in the region's recent history.
In response to the massacre, hundreds of Benue youths took to the streets of Makurdi on Sunday, staging protests to draw global attention to the incessant and deadly attacks plaguing the state.
Government and Public Reactions
The killings have sparked widespread condemnation from various quarters. Governor Alia of Benue State has suggested the attacks might be reprisals, echoing President Tinubu's earlier statement on the matter.
Several prominent figures have also voiced their concerns. Apostle Johnson Suleman urged Benue residents to defend themselves, while Pastor Paul Adefarasin declared "enough is enough" in reaction to the killings. Former presidential candidate Peter Obi criticized the administration for not visiting Benue amid the crisis, lamenting that there seems to be "no value for human lives."
In a related development, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area has banned logging activities amid rising insecurity in the region.
The IGP's visit signals the federal government's attention to the crisis, though many residents and observers question whether this response is sufficient given the scale of the tragedy.
BenriNews will continue to monitor developments as the situation unfolds in Benue State.
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