BREAKING: Nigerian Police Arrest 28 Suspects In Connection With Yelewata Massacre.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the arrest of 28 individuals linked to the horrific massacre in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, where an estimated 100–200 people were killed between 13 and 14 June 2025.
The arrests follow a directive from President Bola Tinubu, issued during a stakeholders’ meeting on 18 June at the Benue State Government House. Expressing dismay that no arrests had been made initially, the President demanded the immediate apprehension of those responsible for the “heinous crime” and called for enhanced security measures to prevent further violence.
The attack, which left numerous homes destroyed and many residents injured or displaced, has been described by the Tor Tiv, HRM James Ayatse, as a “calculated, well-planned genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign by herder-terrorists and bandits.” He condemned efforts to downplay the severity of the violence, urging authorities to address the crisis with urgency.
Swift Security Response
Acting on President Tinubu’s orders, IGP Egbetokun mobilised additional resources from the Police Force Intelligence Bureau, working in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. The joint operation led to the apprehension of the 28 suspects, who are now in custody and expected to face formal charges following ongoing investigations.
During the 18 June meeting, attended by Governor Hyacinth Alia and senior federal officials, President Tinubu instructed the DSS and NIA to bolster surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts. He also called for the establishment of a peace committee and directed Governor Alia to allocate land for ranching to address the recurring herder-farmer conflicts in the region.
Community and Government Action
The violence in Yelewata has sparked widespread outrage, with traditional leaders and community members demanding justice and long-term solutions. President Tinubu has proposed the creation of a Special Intervention Fund to support reconstruction, rehabilitation, and the restoration of livelihoods for affected farmers.
The government’s commitment to peacebuilding includes plans for state-led initiatives and ranching schemes aimed at reducing tensions between herders and farmers. Security agencies have been urged to deepen community engagement to prevent future atrocities.
Key Details
Casualties: Between 100 and 200 people killed, with many injured and displaced.
Arrests: 28 suspects detained as of late June 2025.
Security Collaboration: Coordinated efforts by the Police, DSS, NIA, and military.
Presidential Orders: Immediate arrests, formation of a peace committee, and land allocation for ranching.
Local Sentiment: Traditional leaders label the attack as genocidal, calling for decisive action.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to identify additional suspects and implement measures to ensure lasting peace in the region. The nation watches closely as Benue State seeks justice and recovery from this tragic chapter.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
