In a press conference held on June 24, 2025, Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, outlined the police response to a series of recent violent attacks in Benue and Plateau States. The address comes in the wake of a tragic incident on June 13, when armed militias invaded Yelwata Community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, resulting in the deaths of 47 individuals and injuries to 27 others. The attackers also caused extensive property damage, leaving many residents displaced.
In his remarks, IGP Egbetokun detailed the comprehensive response by law enforcement, noting the rapid deployment of police personnel, special tactical units, and detectives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT). He reported that 26 suspects connected to the attack have been arrested, with significant weaponry, including two General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG) and eight AK-47 rifles recovered.
The IGP commended the police force’s efforts, highlighting that two prime suspects were apprehended shortly after the attack, which led to further arrests in the following days. All suspects are currently in custody, and legal proceedings are underway.
Egbetokun expressed his commitment to pursuing all individuals involved in community attacks, emphasising that both planners and executors will face justice. “We will leave no stone unturned until every single individual responsible for the killing of innocent Nigerians is arrested and brought to justice,” he vowed.
Addressing another grave incident, Egbetokun reported that on June 22, in Mangu, Plateau State, a mob attacked a bus carrying passengers from Zaria, killing nine and injuring three before police intervention. Following this, 22 suspects have been arrested.
On June 23, further violence erupted in Benue, where two individuals were killed, prompting the arrest of five suspects. The IGP condemned the trend of mob justice and reprisal killings, affirming that these actions do not constitute justice and only perpetuate violence.
He urged the Nigerian populace to embrace peace and cooperate with security forces, stating, “Every Nigerian has the right to life and a fair trial,” and warned against taking law into one’s own hands.
Egbetokun acknowledged the cooperation among various security agencies, including the military and DSS, which he credited for the successful operations in the recent crises. He expressed gratitude to President Buhari for supporting the police in their efforts.
Concluding his address, IGP Egbetokun reassured citizens that Nigeria will not succumb to terror, stating, “We are not helpless. We are advancing. And we will not stop until every Nigerian can sleep with both eyes closed.” He called on all communities to remain vigilant and work in partnership with security agencies to restore order and ensure safety across the nation.
