IG Condemns Benue Killings, Says Attacks Threat To National Sovereignty

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has denounced the assault on the Yelwata community in Benue State, where over 200 individuals lost their lives, as a senseless act, labeling it as terrorism that not only targets Benue but also poses a danger to the sovereignty and unity of the entire nation.

During his visit to the state and the impacted community for a firsthand evaluation, IGP Egbetokun committed to enhancing collaboration with other security agencies to guarantee the restoration of lasting peace in Benue State.

Egbetokun stated that the bandits operating without restraint “will soon be a thing of the past because the day will surely come where they will come and never return again, and that day is fast approaching.”

“I am here in Benue State to commiserate with you, the government, the people of the State and the bereaved families and citizens of the State who are affected by the tragedy. On behalf of the Nigerian Police Force, I extend our deepest condolences the Benue people.”

He further noted that President Bola Tinubu is profoundly grieved upon learning of the recent attack on vulnerable communities in Benue and is dedicated to ensuring that the era of lawlessness, criminal gangs, and terror against the people of the State and the entire nation is brought to an end.

The IGP reassured the affected communities and the entire population of the State of the Police’s support, acknowledging, “we are aware of the security challenges facing the State especially at the border Communities.”

“We may not be at every inch of the State, but we are going to deploy adequate personnel, we will deploy our resources in synergy with sister security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and properties.”

Benue State Governor, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, praised President Tinubu, Egbetokun, and his team for their swift response.

However, Alia expressed grief, stating, “We are bleeding, we are in sorrow, we are not sleeping again, but seen you, I believe your visit will uplift our spirit and build within us a formidable assurance of peace in our communities.”

He further remarked that the IGP’s visit and assurances would aid in restoring hope among the people in the affected communities, reinforcing that they are not abandoned “and that you will continue to be there for us to support us in this journey of the fight against this terrorists.”

Alia noted that the attacks have persisted across 17 local government areas, “but when we came in through our efforts, we reduced it to 9 LG to six. However we experience the surge in the last two months.”

He emphasized that with the President’s directives, the people remain confident of victory, “and the sorrowful narratives will become something of the past.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli