IGP Egbetokun Condemns Benue Killings as Assault on Nigeria’s Sovereignty

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned recent killings across Benue State as “senseless and unacceptable,” calling them assaults on both local communities and the nation’s integrity.

During an on-the-spot assessment in the rural community of Yelewata, Egbetokun expressed solidarity with Governor Hyacinth Alia and the people of Benue, offering both sympathy and a firm commitment to pursuing those responsible.

Egbetokun arrived in Yelewata to commiserate with state leaders and victims’ families following a spate of attacks that have left scores dead and numerous homes destroyed.

“We are here not only to sympathise with the governor and the people of Benue, but also to reaffirm our commitment to tracking down these criminal elements and bringing them to justice,” he said.

Describing the raids as “attacks on the sovereignty and integrity of the nation,” the IGP warned that assaults on any Nigerian community undermine the country as a whole.

“An attack on any community of Nigeria is an attack on the entire nation,” he said.

Egbetokun pledged to bolster police presence throughout the state, acknowledging the difficulties posed by Benue’s vast terrain.

“We might not be able to cover every inch of the place, but we are going to deploy adequately to ensure the protection of lives and property in Benue.”

He also announced plans for closer collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders. “We are going to work closely with you and in close synergy with other security agencies to ensure that lasting peace returns to Benue State,” he said, promising shared resources and joint operations.

The IGP warned those who carry out such violence that their freedom will be short-lived. “The criminal elements and bandits might have operated with impunity in the past, but a day is fast approaching when they would come to attack but would never return. That day is fast approaching, and I can assure you that we would continue to protect lives and property in the state.” He added.

Concluding his visit, Egbetokun reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s support for Benue State. “I want to assure you that the Police Force will stand with you and the entire people of Benue State on this, we will defeat these evil.”