The joint security forces in Benue State have successfully arrested suspects linked to the brutal attack on the Yelwata community, which resulted in multiple fatalities. The arrest follows a directive from President Bola Tinubu, who called on service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure the capture of those responsible for the devastating assault.
In a press briefing on Sunday, Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, confirmed the arrests but withheld the identities of the suspects involved. He acknowledged the crucial support from Governor Hyacinth Alia in making these arrests possible.
This development came after President Tinubu’s firm instructions to the nation’s security apparatus, delivered during his visit to Benue last Wednesday. “I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” President Tinubu said, urging the IGP to enhance security operations in the state.
“Christopher, you have given much. I watch your comments, you can’t be tired of staying in the bush. Oloyede and the Air Marshal, we thank all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground, let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out. DG NIA, DG SSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence so that this will not occur again,” he further emphasized.
Following the President’s orders, the IGP’s deployment, led by Kayode Egbetokun, arrived in Benue. Security personnel have been strategically stationed in rural communities to bolster the region’s policing efforts.
Ifeanyi also called on landlords and hotel owners in Benue to intensify vigilance by profiling tenants and clients in order to prevent the infiltration of criminal elements into the state.
The Attack on Yelwata Community
Last week, gunmen believed to be herders launched a brutal assault on the Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area, a region vital to Nigeria’s food production. The attack led to numerous deaths, while thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes, adding to the already dire humanitarian situation in the area.
As the investigation continues, local authorities remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further bloodshed.
Local Impact and Community Response
In the aftermath of the violence, local leaders and community members have called for swift justice, urging the government to act decisively to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities. The Benue killings have sparked debates surrounding the increasing insecurity in the region and the broader implications for national stability.
Benue Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has also initiated peace talks with traditional rulers to help ease tensions in the area and pave the way for long-term stability. The state government’s efforts aim to address the root causes of the violence and explore peaceful resolutions with all stakeholders involved.