Benue Security Forces Arrest Suspects in Deadly Yelwata Attack: CP Emenari Confirms Progress in Ongoing Investigation

 

In the wake of a horrifying attack that left several residents dead and thousands displaced in the Yelwata community of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, joint security forces have made a significant breakthrough. The Benue State Police Command has officially confirmed the arrest of suspects believed to be connected to the tragic violence that rocked the state last week.

The announcement was made during a press conference held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, by the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi. While addressing the media, CP Emenari disclosed that several suspects had been taken into custody in connection with the brutal assault, which is believed to have been carried out by armed herdsmen. However, he chose not to reveal the identities of the suspects at this stage of the investigation.

"These arrests would not have been possible without the support of His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia," CP Emenari stated.

Coordinated Security Efforts Yielding Results

The recent violence in Yelwata is just one of many attacks that have plagued rural communities across Benue State in recent months. However, security forces have now intensified operations in the region, following the directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. According to CP Emenari, the special deployment ordered by the IGP has already been completed, and new units have been strategically stationed in rural communities that are most vulnerable to attacks.

"We have completed the deployment ordered by the Inspector General of Police, and officers are now stationed in rural areas to improve our presence and policing capabilities," the Commissioner confirmed.

These deployments are part of a broader counterterrorism and anti-banditry strategy being implemented in Benue and other parts of the North Central region. The primary goal is to curb the recurring violence that has displaced countless families and devastated farming communities.

Call for Community Vigilance

In addition to the arrests and increased security deployments, CP Emenari used the opportunity to appeal directly to residents of Benue State, especially property owners and hospitality businesses, to play a more active role in crime prevention.

"We urge all landlords and hotel owners to properly screen their tenants and clients to help prevent the infiltration of terrorists and criminal elements into our communities," he said.

This statement reflects growing concerns about how non-state actors and violent groups are able to move freely within communities by exploiting hospitality services and housing opportunities. Security analysts say local cooperation is critical in the fight against terrorism and rural banditry, especially in a state like Benue that shares porous borders with several others.

Background: What Happened in Yelwata?

The Yelwata community attack, which occurred last week, sent shockwaves through Guma Local Government Area. According to multiple eyewitness reports and statements from local leaders, the attack was carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, a group frequently linked to recurring violence in Benue State.

Dozens of residents were killed during the night raid, while thousands of others fled their homes in fear for their lives. Properties were razed, farmlands destroyed, and the once-bustling community was left in a state of chaos.

The tragic event drew nationwide condemnation, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over the seemingly endless cycle of violence in Benue. Human rights groups, civil society organizations, and politicians—including members of the National Assembly—have called on the Federal Government to treat these attacks as acts of terrorism.

Governor Alia’s Role in Boosting Security

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has been praised for his role in facilitating stronger cooperation between state authorities and federal security agencies. According to CP Emenari, the governor’s unwavering support was key to the success of the recent arrests.

Governor Alia has also been vocal about the need for a more sustainable and proactive approach to security in Benue. He has repeatedly stated that protecting the lives and livelihoods of citizens—especially in the state’s rural communities—remains a top priority of his administration.

"The blood of innocent Benue citizens cannot continue to flow endlessly. Enough is enough," the Governor declared during a previous press briefing.

In response to the Yelwata killings, Governor Alia ordered immediate humanitarian relief to displaced persons and demanded an urgent investigation into the attack.

Nationwide Reactions and Renewed Calls for Justice

Following the incident, the Benue State House of Assembly passed a resolution demanding the immediate release of 14 individuals who were arrested by police during protests over the attack. Lawmakers criticized the manner in which security personnel handled the protesters and instead called for the government’s focus to remain on arresting the actual perpetrators of violence.

The incident also reignited conversations around the anti-open grazing law introduced in Benue in 2017. Many believe that lax enforcement and lack of federal support have emboldened armed groups to continue launching attacks on farming communities.

Civil society groups are now calling for a national security summit that focuses exclusively on resolving the deadly herder-farmer conflicts, particularly in Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, and parts of Kaduna.

What Happens Next?

While the arrests mark a step forward, residents are still skeptical about whether justice will be served. In many past cases, suspects linked to mass killings were either released without prosecution or the cases were stalled in court. The Benue Police Command has assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that more arrests may follow.

Security experts say that without a full judicial process—prosecution, sentencing, and conviction—the cycle of violence may continue unchecked.

In the meantime, displaced residents of Yelwata continue to struggle in temporary camps with little access to food, water, or medical care. Humanitarian organizations have called for urgent intervention to prevent the outbreak of disease in the overcrowded camps.

Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead for Benue

The recent arrests in connection with the Yelwata massacre have offered a glimmer of hope to a community ravaged by violence. However, the journey to lasting peace in Benue is far from over.

Without a coordinated approach involving federal support, strong leadership, community vigilance, and swift judicial action, the threat of repeated attacks will continue to haunt the state. The people of Benue deserve better—they deserve safety, justice, and a return to normal life.

As the story continues to unfold, NaijaRush.com will remain committed to bringing our readers timely, truthful, and in-depth updates on the security situation in Benue State and across Nigeria.