Police engaged Yelewata attackers for over six hours – Benue CP

The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi Innocent, has disclosed that police officers exchanged gunfire with the assailants who attacked Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area for over six hours.

The attack, which occurred on Saturday, reportedly left more than 200 people dead, sparking outrage across the state and prompting mass protests by angry youths.

Addressing the demonstrators on Sunday, Commissioner Emenari assured the public that the police are fully deployed and committed to restoring order and protecting lives.

“We engaged the attackers in a gun duel that lasted more than six hours during the Yelewata incident. I was monitoring the operation in real-time,” he said.

Describing the escalating violence as a temporary “phase,” the police chief urged residents to remain calm and support the efforts of security agencies.

“This is just a phase. Like a snake that struggles briefly after its head is cut off — we have cut the head, and the tail-end resistance will soon pass. Peace will return,” Emenari added.

He emphasized that security presence has been significantly intensified across the state in recent weeks and reassured residents of the force’s resolve to end the wave of violence.

“We will not rest until lasting peace is restored to Benue,” he declared.