JUST IN: IGP Egbetokun Arrives Benue, Orders Fresh Deployment to Curb Killings

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has arrived in Benue State and ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical units to the state in response to the recent wave of violent attacks that have left dozens dead.

The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the development in a brief statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.

“IGP arrives Benue, orders for additional deployment of tactical teams,” the statement read.

The visit follows nationwide outrage over the continued killings in Guma Local Government Area, where at least 45 people have been confirmed dead. Local sources, however, fear the death toll may exceed 200, with reports of entire families being burned alive and security personnel also among the casualties.

Social media has been awash with calls for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Benue, as the crisis intensifies with little decisive federal action.

Critics have pointed to what they describe as selective urgency by the government, noting that a state of emergency was declared in Rivers State in March over political tensions, despite the absence of recorded fatalities—unlike the escalating human toll in Benue.

The IGP’s visit is expected to reinforce ongoing security operations in the state and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to restoring peace and order.