The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has condemned the recent wave of deadly violence in Benue and Plateau States, vowing that all perpetrators will be brought to justice. Speaking during a press briefing at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the IGP confirmed the arrest of 55 suspects linked to the attacks and reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and restoring peace.
On June 13, armed militias invaded Yelwata Community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State between 11:30 p.m. and 2:00 a.m., killing 47 residents, injuring 27 others, and displacing hundreds. The attackers set homes on fire and destroyed property in what the IGP described as a deliberate and barbaric act of terror. In response, the police deployed tactical units, Special Forces, and operatives from the Intelligence Response Team. A total of 28 suspects were arrested in connection with the massacre. Among them were two prime suspects apprehended on June 19, followed by additional arrests over the next four days. The police also recovered two General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and eight AK-47 rifles believed to have been used in the attack. All 28 suspects are currently in custody and have reportedly confessed to their roles. Legal proceedings are underway, and they will be arraigned without delay.
The IGP also addressed a separate incident that occurred on June 22 in Mangu, Plateau State, where a bus traveling from Zaria was intercepted by a mob. Nine passengers were murdered, three were injured, and 22 others were rescued by police before the situation could escalate further. Twenty-two suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack and will be prosecuted.
A day later, on June 23, two individuals were killed in the Agan area of North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State. Five suspects were arrested and remain in custody.
IGP Egbetokun issued a strong warning against jungle justice and reprisal killings, stating that mob actions have no place in a civilized society. He emphasized that every Nigerian is entitled to a fair trial and warned individuals and groups against taking the law into their own hands. According to the IGP, such acts only deepen the cycle of violence and do not bring justice.
He called on all Nigerians, regardless of background, to reject violence and embrace peace, urging communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies. He also acknowledged the crucial role played by inter-agency cooperation in achieving the recent breakthroughs and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the police response efforts.
IGP Egbetokun concluded with a firm message of resolve, stating that Nigeria will not be intimidated by terror or descend into lawlessness. He assured the public that the police will not rest until every criminal element is apprehended and justice is served.