Following the massive killing of over 100 people in Yelwata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area on Saturday, the military deployed air surveillance over Makurdi, Benue State, and surrounding areas on Sunday. A surveillance aircraft was observed hovering over the capital and nearby Guma and Gwer West local government areas since Sunday morning.
A military officer, speaking anonymously due to a lack of authorisation, stated, “The air surveillance is to monitor the situation around Makurdi and its environs, enabling us to respond swiftly. Residents should remain calm; the military is in control.”
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assumed control of Benue State’s security. Commissioner of Police Emenari Ifeanyi announced that Special Forces, including intelligence units, arrived in the state on Saturday night and have been deployed to Naka, Apa, Agatu, Daudu, and Yelewata. “We are in control of the situation,” Ifeanyi assured, noting that arrests have been made and security agencies are united in tackling insecurity. He added that Governor Hyacinth Alia has provided full logistical support.
Ifeanyi explained that Saturday’s attack in Yelwata occurred because security forces were focused on Apa, Gwer West, and Agatu, but tactical teams were already in place before the incident. “We have intelligence on the gunmen’s movements, and our efforts will soon yield results,” he said, urging residents to allow security operatives to work without interference.
On Sunday, protesters gathered at Wurukum Roundabouts in Makurdi, carrying leaves and demanding federal protection against ongoing violence. Brahms Ikuan and Gideon Inyom, speaking for the group, criticised the authorities’ failure to curb the killings. The protest turned chaotic when the crowd refused to let Deputy Governor Sam Ode and Commissioner Ifeanyi address them, prompting police to disperse them with tear gas.
Following the violence, President Bola Tinubu directed intelligence chiefs, police, and military to oversee security operations in Benue and restore order. He also instructed Governor Alia to lead reconciliation efforts and dialogue among warring parties to end the bloodshed. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, emphasised, “Governor Alia must act as a statesman to foster dialogue and reconciliation, ensuring peace through fairness, openness, and justice.”
