In response to escalating violence, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has deployed special squads across the country to combat banditry and terrorism. He directed all Police Mobile Force (PMF) squadrons to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby, effective immediately.
During a Tuesday meeting with squadron commanders in Abuja—amid deadly attacks in Kwara, Benue, and Sokoto that claimed 21 lives—the IG emphasized the PMF’s role as a swift, decisive strike force. He also mandated quarterly training focused on ethics, professionalism, and responsible policing, while announcing a reorganization to enhance efficiency and reduce squadron sizes. Commanders will now be held accountable for the conduct of their personnel.
Egbetokun reiterated the withdrawal of PMF officers from escort duties, stressing the need to redirect manpower toward core security responsibilities. Indiscipline among officers, he said, would no longer be tolerated.
Waves of Violence Across States
In Kwara State, gunmen attacked a motor park in Ilesha Baruba on Tuesday, killing six and injuring two. A vigilante member was also shot dead in Kemanji, Kaiama LGA. Police have arrested an informant tied to a bandit network. Tactical efforts and surveillance have been intensified in the area. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, accompanied by top military and security officials, assessed the situation in Kaiama and met with stakeholders.
In Benue State, a suspected bandit nicknamed ‘Government’ reportedly killed 11 people in Afia community, Ukum LGA. While some locals believe he was mentally ill, the state’s Information Commissioner, Mathew Abo, identified him as a known bandit. The state police spokesperson claimed ignorance of the incident.
During a visit to Makurdi, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu stated that Nigeria inherited a 15-year-old security crisis rooted in criminality, not ethnicity or religion. He affirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to resolving insecurity through a more proactive and listening approach.
In Sokoto State, the Lakurawa terror group attacked Adarawa and Huymar Dutsi villages in Tangaza LGA, killing three and looting properties. They later rustled livestock and mounted a roadblock at Gulbin Mujadde, intercepting traders. Daily attacks have heightened fear in the region. Police spokesman Ahmed Rufai confirmed the frequency of such assaults.
Regional and State Responses
The Northern States Governors’ Forum, led by Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, is pushing for a coordinated strategy to combat insecurity in the North. Yahaya has engaged security chiefs and stakeholders to foster intelligence sharing and joint operations.
In Katsina State, Deputy Governor Faruk Jobe reported substantial progress under Governor Dikko Radda’s administration. A N36.8 billion investment has established the Katsina Community Watch Corps, equipped with vehicles, drones, and surveillance gear. Over 2,000 victims have received financial aid. Both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, including community engagement and traditional structures, are in use.
In Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the deployment of 115 military personnel to the Akoko area. He pledged increased recruitment into the Amotekun Corps and expressed support for a proposed security trust fund. Former Senator Bode Olajumoke urged the adoption of advanced technology and better equipment for Amotekun.
Foreign Bandits Blamed in Benue
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State attributed the rising violence to foreign elements, claiming the attackers don’t look or speak like Nigerians. He noted that past clashes were with traditional herders, whereas current attacks are more organized and devastating. He warned that Benue’s porous borders with Cameroon provide a haven for these terrorists.
