Two Killed in Benue, Five Arrested as IGP Condemns Reprisal Killings
Two individuals traveling in a truck were killed in the Agan area of North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State—a violent incident that has sparked fresh concerns about rising insecurity in the region.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, announced that five suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and will face prosecution.
Speaking on the incident, the IGP condemned the growing pattern of reprisal killings across the country, describing them as unacceptable and counterproductive.
“The recent trend of reprisal killings, where innocent citizens are murdered in retaliation for crimes committed by others, is barbaric, senseless, and dangerous. It does not bring justice,” Egbetokun said.
He assured the public that the police would relentlessly pursue all those responsible—whether they planned or executed such attacks.
“We will go after anyone who attacks any community in Nigeria. No stone will be left unturned until justice is served,” he emphasized.
The IGP also outlined ongoing police efforts to combat arms proliferation, citing the recent Yelwata operation as an example.
“We’re recovering illegal arms almost daily. In Yelwata, we made arrests and seized weapons. We’re also enhancing our border security,” he stated.
Egbetokun issued a stern warning to officers misusing his name to commit illegal acts, promising strict sanctions against anyone found culpable.
On freedom of expression, the IGP drew a clear line between criticism and defamation:
“I’ve been abused countless times online—it doesn’t bother me. But anyone who spreads falsehoods about public officials or citizens will be arrested. We won’t tolerate .”
Concluding, the IGP urged Nigerians to embrace peace and unity, of ethnic or religious backgrounds, emphasizing that violence is never the path to justice.
