In response to the devastating attack on Yelewata village in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where at least 200 villagers were killed, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, have initiated a joint cross-border operation to apprehend the assailants.
The assault, which occurred on the night of Friday, June 13, 2025, involved gunmen who opened fire on sleeping villagers and set homes ablaze. Many victims had previously sought refuge in the village after fleeing earlier violence.
General Musa, upon visiting the affected area, expressed concerns about potential insider involvement, stating, “There may be trust issues that we are going to address. We need everybody to be part of it.” He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in combating the violence.
Inspector-General Egbetokun condemned the attacks as a threat to national sovereignty, asserting, “An attack on any community of Nigeria is an attack on the entire country.” He pledged increased police presence and collaboration with military forces to restore peace.
President Bola Tinubu has also condemned the killings, describing them as “senseless bloodletting.” He announced plans to visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, to meet with stakeholders and discuss strategies for lasting peace.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State expressed gratitude for the federal support, stating, “We are hopeful that with all hands on deck, we would become victorious and the sorrowful narrative we share today would become a thing of the past.”
The attack in Yelewata is part of a broader pattern of violence linked to farmer-herder conflicts and banditry in the region.
Authorities are urging residents to cooperate with security forces to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further bloodshed.
International organizations, including Amnesty International, have condemned the violence and called for accountability.
The United Nations has also expressed concern over the escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s north-central region.
As investigations continue, the Nigerian government remains committed to restoring peace and security to Benue State and other affected areas.
