Benue CP hails Governor Alia’s commitment to combating insecurity
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, has lauded Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia for his dedication to tackling armed herders and bandits across the state.
CP Ifeanyi made the commendation on Monday in Makurdi while providing journalists with updates on security operations, noting that the police are working closely with other security agencies to protect rural communities.
He credited the governor, local authorities, vigilantes, and community youths for their cooperation, describing their support as “critical to improving security across the state.”
“The governor does not sleep. He is always on our neck and he makes provisions for all that we need,” CP Ifeanyi said.
The commissioner assured residents that security forces remain vigilant, with concerted operations ongoing to eliminate criminal elements. He highlighted the collaboration of the police, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard in carrying out regular joint patrols.
He further noted the deployment of the police air component for aerial surveillance, while tactical teams remain active in vulnerable areas. CP Ifeanyi confirmed that a recent attack by bandits on June 13 in Asakpa, Ojantele, and Okpete communities in Apa Local Government Area resulted in the deaths of six villagers. Security operatives, in coordination with Operation Whirl Stroke, launched drone-assisted operations to track the attackers, who fled into nearby forests.
Additional reinforcements, including the Special Intervention Squad and Counter Terrorism Unit, have been deployed to prevent further attacks. The commissioner also urged residents to avoid politicising or exaggerating security incidents and encouraged them to provide useful information to security agencies.
A representative of Operation Whirl Stroke added that more troops have been deployed to Kwande Local Government Area to secure vulnerable communities and block entry and exit routes used by criminals. Both security leaders expressed confidence that the ongoing joint operations would help restore peace and stability across Benue State.
