Minna, Nigeria — As Nigeria continues to grapple with escalating violence, Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, on Tuesday imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Minna, the state capital, in response to growing insecurity and a surge in violent attacks. This follows the killing of 11 people in a fresh assault by armed herdsmen in Benue State.

Governor Bago warned that the curfew may be extended to other parts of the state if the situation does not improve. He blamed criminals using motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke NAPEP) for much of the unrest and announced a clampdown on their activities.

While addressing traditional rulers and security agencies during a high-level meeting at the Government House in Minna, Bago pledged to personally lead operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements. He emphasized that only emergency medical services would be exempt from the curfew restrictions.

“No house will be allowed to shelter criminals. Any building found to harbor criminals or serve as a base for drug activity will be demolished,” Bago warned, urging traditional leaders to properly document residents in their communities.

He also cautioned parents to keep their children away from violence-related activities, reiterating his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards thuggery and lawlessness.

Fresh Attacks in Benue: 11 Killed in Ukum LGA

In Benue State, at least 11 people were killed during a renewed herdsmen attack in the Afia community of Ukum Local Government Area. According to the traditional ruler, Ter Ukum, HRH Iyorkaa Kaave, the early-morning assault left multiple casualties, with search efforts for more victims ongoing.

“Please tell President Tinubu that we will not continue living with murderers disguised as herdsmen,” Kaave told the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who visited the state following the attack.

Ribadu, in his address, assured residents that the government would overcome the security crisis. He acknowledged that the administration inherited a deteriorating security situation and was working to restore order.

“We are with Benue people. We will defeat this evil. However, security should not be politicized. Let’s unite to stop the killings,” Ribadu said.

Benue Governor: “We’re Under Siege”

Governor Hyacinth Alia described the situation as a siege, noting the state now has 17 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps due to constant attacks. He stressed the severity of the attacks on local government areas like Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo, which have disrupted farming and displaced thousands.

“Benue is bleeding. We lost 72 lives. This is carnage,” Alia lamented. “These attackers speak Fulani and Hausa. This isn’t just violence—it’s a systematic invasion and occupation.”

Alia disclosed that the state has procured 100 Hilux vehicles and 600 motorcycles to support security operations and urged the Federal Government to expedite intervention efforts.

Traditional Leaders and Stakeholders Meet Over Crisis

The Tor Tiv, HRM James Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, HRM Dr. John Odogbo, convened emergency meetings in Gboko and Otukpo respectively, bringing together major stakeholders from the Tiv, Idoma, and Igede communities. The meetings focused on security strategies and reaffirmed commitment to protecting their people.

NBA, Afenifere, PANDEF Demand State Police

Amid the worsening security, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Plateau State renewed calls for the establishment of state police. During a press briefing, NBA Jos Branch Chairman Leah Hassan condemned recent killings in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs and urged the Federal Government to empower states to defend themselves.

“States should have their own police forces, equipped and trained to protect their communities,” Hassan stated. The NBA demanded immediate arrest and prosecution of perpetrators, deployment of more security forces, and support for victims.

The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, and the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), also criticized the Federal Government’s response to insecurity. Afenifere’s acting leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, declared the Federal Government overwhelmed, reiterating that only state policing could address the growing threats effectively.

“The situation is dire. The current structure makes it difficult for state governors to respond swiftly to security crises. State police are the only way forward,” he said.