Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has arrived in Benue State and directed the urgent deployment of more tactical operatives to curb escalating violence in the area.
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the move in a brief update shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, stating, “IGP arrives Benue, orders for additional deployment of tactical teams.”
This action follows a series of brutal attacks, reportedly by suspected herders, which have left dozens dead. Public anger has intensified, with many Nigerians on social media demanding that the Federal Government declare a state of emergency in the state.
Over at least 45 people were confirmed dead in Guma Local Government Area. However, local sources believe the actual death toll could be much higher, potentially surpassing 200. Eyewitnesses have described horrifying scenes, including entire families burned alive and security personnel among the casualties.
The government’s muted response to the killings has drawn sharp criticism, especially when compared to the swift intervention in Rivers State earlier this year, where a state of emergency was declared despite the absence of any reported deaths.
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