The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, arrived in Benue State on Monday and ordered the urgent deployment of additional tactical units to the state following a surge in deadly attacks that have left dozens dead and many communities displaced.
A statement issued by the Nigeria Police Force confirmed the IGP’s arrival and directive, noting that the decision was made in response to escalating insecurity across several local government areas, particularly Guma, which has been the epicentre of renewed violence allegedly linked to suspected herders.
“IGP arrives Benue, orders for additional deployment of tactical teams,” the statement, posted on the Force’s official X handle, read.
The deployment comes amid rising public outrage and growing pressure on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Benue State.
Over the weekend, at least 45 people were confirmed dead in Guma Local Government Area alone, with local authorities warning that the true death toll could exceed 200.
Reports from the affected communities indicate entire families were killed with some victims reportedly burned alive. Security personnel were also said to be among the casualties.
Local and international observers have condemned what they describe as the Federal Government’s muted response to the crisis, especially when compared with its swift intervention in the Rivers State political crisis in March, where a state of emergency was declared despite the absence of any fatalities.
The latest directive by the IGP is aimed at restoring order and reassuring residents amid a climate of fear and uncertainty.
According to police authorities, the reinforcement will include personnel from the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Intelligence Response Team and Special Forces, all tasked with stabilising the region and neutralising ongoing threats.
Egbetokun is expected to meet with community leaders, state government officials, and heads of other security agencies to coordinate a joint operational strategy.
The Inspector-General has consistently reiterated his commitment to tackling rural banditry, armed herders and communal violence, which have continued to disrupt lives and undermine agricultural productivity in the Middle Belt region.
In a brief address upon arrival, Egbetokun stated, “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting all citizens, and we will not allow criminal elements to terrorise innocent communities. Our tactical teams are being mobilised to take immediate action.”
The renewed security deployment is expected to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities, and reinforce existing operations already underway in the state.
Residents, however, continue to demand long-term structural solutions, including the establishment of permanent security bases in high-risk areas and justice for the victims of the recent attacks.
With public attention now sharply focused on the deteriorating situation in Benue, the effectiveness of the police response and the level of federal engagement in the coming days will likely shape public perception of the government’s handling of internal security.
