JUST IN: Police Chief Kayode Egbetokun Arrives Benue, Orders More Tactical Teams Amid Rising Death Toll

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has arrived in Benue State amid escalating violence that has left scores dead. In response, he has directed the immediate deployment of additional tactical police teams to the region, according to a statement from the Nigeria Police Force posted on Monday via X.

“IGP arrives Benue, orders for additional deployment of tactical teams,” the official statement confirmed.

This action follows a brutal attack in Guma Local Government Area, where at least 45 people have been confirmed dead, though local estimates suggest the toll could be much higher, with some reports indicating over 200 fatalities. The attacks reportedly involved the burning of entire families and the killing of security personnel.

The violence has sparked intense public outcry, with calls on social media and from civil society for the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Benue. Many Nigerians have criticized the government for its slow response, especially when compared to the swift emergency declaration during the political unrest in Rivers State earlier this year, which did not result in any deaths.

The IGP’s presence and the reinforcement of tactical teams are intended to stabilize the situation and prevent further loss of life.