PDP Reinstates Anyanwu as National Secretary, Halts NEC Meeting

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has disclosed that 53 individuals have been arrested in connection with recent deadly attacks in Benue and Plateau states. The suspects will be prosecuted without delay.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, Egbetokun described the June 13 killings in Yelewata, Benue State, as a “coordinated terror attack.” He reported that 26 people were arrested in connection with that attack, another 22 over the mob killings in Mangu, Plateau, and five more for a separate killing in Makurdi.

He revealed that in Yelewata, 47 individuals were killed, and 27 others were injured. Weapons including two general-purpose machine guns and eight AK-47 rifles were recovered. The suspects, he said, had confessed to their roles in the massacre and will be charged immediately.

Narrating the breakthrough, the IGP said two masterminds were captured on June 19, leading to further arrests in the following days, including a suspect who hosted a meeting to plan the assault.

On June 22, another violent incident occurred in Plateau’s Mangu area. A mob attacked a bus carrying passengers from Zaria, killing nine and injuring three others. Twenty-two suspects are currently in custody for the act.

A day later, on June 23, two travelers were killed in Makurdi’s Agan area. Five suspects were arrested shortly after and will also be charged.

The IGP condemned the trend of revenge killings and promised relentless pursuit of those behind such violence. He assured that technology would soon help police monitor crime in remote areas, stating that despite vast and difficult terrains, law enforcement is evolving to respond faster.

Responding to safety concerns, he declared, “Abuja is safe.”

Defence Headquarters Denies Blaming Victims

Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified statements made by Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, regarding the Yelewata killings. The DHQ said his comments were misinterpreted and did not intend to justify or blame victims.

A statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau accused a civil society group of twisting the CDS’s words. It said Musa only urged communities to remain vigilant and cooperative with security forces. The DHQ stressed that such misrepresentation undermines the military’s efforts and morale.

Peace Committee Underway in Benue

In a related development, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has begun steps to form a peace committee as directed by President Bola Tinubu during a recent visit.

Tinubu had urged the governor to lead a committee—including traditional rulers and non-indigenes—to find lasting peace. Alia’s spokesman confirmed that consultations were ongoing.

Separately, it was gathered that Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, met with key traditional rulers—the Tor Tiv and the Och’Idoma—as part of moves to build lasting peace and end recurring violence in the state.