In response to the recent devastating attacks in Benue State, the Nigerian military has intensified its efforts to restore peace by deploying aerial surveillance over Makurdi and surrounding areas. This move comes after at least 100 people were killed in the Yelewata community of Guma Local Government Area between Friday night and Saturday morning. Amnesty International reported that victims were burned alive in their homes, with graphic footage circulating on social media showing charred bodies and destroyed houses.
The attacks are believed to be linked to longstanding conflicts between local farmers and nomadic herders, primarily of Fulani origin. Tensions arise over land and water use, with herders citing historical grazing rights established in 1965. Similar violence in the region has previously resulted in dozens of deaths.
In a parallel development, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has taken decisive action to address the escalating insecurity in Benue State. The IGP has deployed 15 additional police units, special forces, and intelligence teams to the state to contain further attacks and restore order. These deployments include aerial surveillance helicopters, police mobile forces, counter-terrorism units, and special investigation teams.
The Nigerian Senate has also weighed in on the situation, urging the service chiefs, including the IGP, to urgently deploy security personnel to address the continuing attacks in Benue communities. The Senate specifically called for increased security in Kwande, Ukum, and Katsina Ala local government areas to flush out the terrorists and restore normalcy.
President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the recent killings in Benue State, which left over 46 people dead in the Umogidi community of Entekpa-Adoka in Otukpo Local Government Area. He directed the secret services, police, and military commanders to enhance surveillance and immediately review the security management in the affected areas. The president urged the aggrieved parties to embrace efforts to end the extreme violence and conveyed his sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack.
The combined efforts of the military, police, and government agencies reflect a concerted push to end the cycle of violence in Benue State. While these measures are steps toward restoring peace, the underlying issues of land use and grazing rights continue to fuel tensions. Addressing these root causes will be crucial in achieving lasting peace in the region.
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