Following the deadly attacks in Yelwata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday, the military on Sunday began aerial surveillance over Makurdi and surrounding areas.
Surveillance aircraft were seen hovering over the state capital and neighboring local government areas, including Guma and Gwer West, from early Sunday morning.
A military source, speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization, confirmed that the operation was intended to assess and monitor the security situation across the affected regions.
“The air surveillance is to help us understand what’s happening in and around Makurdi so we can respond quickly and effectively,” the officer explained. “Residents should not panic; the military has the situation under control.”
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has assumed direct control of security operations in the state.
Saturday’s attack reportedly left over 100 people dead and many others injured after armed men stormed the communities.
In response, protesters gathered on Sunday at the Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi, carrying leaves and demanding federal protection. Protest leaders Brahms Ikuan and Gideon Inyom decried the continued violence and accused authorities of failing to safeguard the people.
When Deputy Governor Sam Ode and Commissioner of Police Emenari Ifeanyi attempted to address the protesters, they were resisted. Police later used teargas to disperse the crowd.
Speaking to journalists afterward, CP Ifeanyi confirmed that the IGP had deployed special forces to Benue.
“As we speak, Special Forces are already on the ground, and more are on their way. These are intelligence units that will track down the attackers wherever they are,” he said.
He also revealed that units had already been dispatched to Naka, Apa, Agatu, Daudu, and Yelwata, and assured citizens that the situation was under control.
“All security agencies are working together, and we’ve already made some arrests. Governor Hyacinth Alia has provided all the support we need—logistics and resources,” he added.
According to the commissioner, Saturday’s attack on Yelwata may have been a retaliatory move by the armed groups after the deployment of security personnel to Apa, Gwer West, and Agatu.
“They are trying to create the impression that they are still in control, but they’re not—and they never will be,” he said. “We already have intelligence on their movements, and results will soon follow.”
CP Ifeanyi reassured residents that tactical teams had been deployed, including in Yelwata, and were actively working in the affected areas to ensure safety and restore calm.
