IGP Egbetokun Visits Benue, Condemns Killings as “Senseless and an Act of Terrorism”

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Monday, June 16, 2025, paid a condolence visit to Benue State following a wave of brutal attacks that claimed the lives of numerous residents.

The IGP described the killings as “senseless and an act of terrorism,” as he pledged decisive police action to restore peace and bring the perpetrators to justice.

IGP Egbetokun was accompanied on the visit by a high-level delegation that included the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Yakubu Kwazhi; DIG of Logistics and Supply, Adebola Ayinde Hamzat; AIG Zone 4, Zachariah Fera; and CP SIS, Abayomi Shogunle.

At the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, the IGP met with Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, expressing his condolences on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force and reaffirming the Force’s support for the people of Benue during this difficult period.

In response, Governor Alia welcomed the IGP’s presence and praised the ongoing deployment of police personnel and tactical assets.

He noted the relief and confidence it had brought to communities under siege.During the visit, the IGP reiterated the Police Force’s stance on the violence, stating, “The killings are senseless and an act of terrorism.” He assured the governor and residents that the police would give their utmost effort to address the situation.

“The Nigeria Police Force would carry out its best efforts to rein in the situation and bring the perpetrators of these heinous and barbaric acts to justice,” he said.The IGP and his team, alongside the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, also toured Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area — one of the areas worst hit by the attacks. There, he inspected the level of destruction and met with local leaders, offering condolences and reaffirming the Force’s commitment to rebuilding confidence in the security architecture of the state.

To strengthen the response to the violence, IGP Egbetokun ordered the “immediate deployment of additional tactical teams and assets,” and directed DIG Yakubu Kwazhi to oversee the security operations aimed at restoring normalcy in affected communities.

The police chief concluded his visit by addressing officers and men of the Benue State Command at the officers’ mess in Makurdi. He promised improved welfare and logistical support for personnel tackling the security challenges in the state.

“The Nigeria Police Force once again reaffirms its commitment, in line with the agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to the good people of Benue State and the entire country,” the IGP stated. “The Force remains resolute towards bringing the perpetrators of these attacks to justice and restoring peace to all affected communities.”