AGS NEWS – The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has strongly condemned the recent massacre in Yelwata community, Benue State, where over 200 people were reportedly killed. Describing the attack as “mindless” and an act of terror, Egbetokun said the assault poses not only a grave danger to Benue but threatens the sovereignty and integrity of the entire nation.

The IGP made the remarks during his visit to Benue on Monday for an on-the-spot assessment of the tragic incident. He pledged to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies to restore lasting peace to the state.

“Bandits who operate with such impunity will soon become history,” Egbetokun said. “The day is fast approaching when they will come and never return again.”

Expressing sympathy for the affected families, the IGP stated, “I am here in Benue State to commiserate with the government, the people, and the bereaved families. On behalf of the Nigerian Police Force, I extend our deepest condolences.”

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Egbetokun also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s deep concern over the attack. He said the President is committed to ending the wave of terror and impunity that has repeatedly targeted Benue and other vulnerable communities nationwide.

“The President is saddened by the news of yet another attack on innocent lives. He is fully committed to putting a stop to this reign of violence across Nigeria,” Egbetokun stated.

Assuring the people of Benue of continued police support, the IGP acknowledged the security challenges facing the state, especially in its border communities. “We may not be present in every corner, but we will deploy sufficient personnel and work in synergy with sister agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property,” he said.

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, while welcoming the IGP, praised the swift response by the federal government and security leadership. He, however, expressed deep sorrow over the recurring violence.

“We are bleeding. We are in sorrow. We are not sleeping,” Alia said. “But your visit gives us renewed hope. It uplifts our spirits and reassures us that we are not alone in this fight.”

Governor Alia noted that while attacks previously spanned 17 local government areas, his administration had managed to reduce them to six. However, he acknowledged a resurgence in the last two months, expressing hope that recent federal directives would reverse the tide.

“With the renewed commitment from the presidency and security agencies, we are confident that these sorrowful narratives will soon become a thing of the past,” Alia concluded.