The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Emenari Ifeanyi, has praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his commitment to tackling insecurity across the state, particularly threats posed by armed herders and bandits.
Speaking during a security briefing with journalists in Makurdi, the police chief said law enforcement agencies are working closely with other security bodies to protect rural communities from criminal attacks. He said that the collaboration has strengthened ongoing efforts to maintain peace in affected areas.
Emenari highlighted the governor’s role in supporting security operations, describing his involvement as proactive and consistent. He also acknowledged the contributions of local government authorities, vigilante groups, and community youths, saying their cooperation has been vital in improving the security situation.
“The governor is constantly engaged and ensures that necessary resources are made available for operations,” he said, emphasizing the importance of sustained government backing.
The police commissioner assured residents that security agencies remain in control of the situation, with ongoing coordinated operations aimed at eliminating criminal elements. He added that forces have continued to respond swiftly to emerging threats, especially incidents linked to banditry and armed herders. According to him, joint patrols involving the police, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard are being conducted regularly across various communities. He also disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force has deployed its air wing to provide aerial surveillance, while tactical teams have been stationed in high-risk areas.
Emenari confirmed that a recent attack in the communities of Asakpa, Ojantele, and Okpete in Apa Local Government Area resulted in the deaths of six residents. He said security personnel, in collaboration with troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, launched a coordinated response, including drone surveillance, to track the fleeing attackers. He further revealed that additional reinforcements, including the Special Intervention Squad and the Counter Terrorism Unit, have been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further violence.
The commissioner cautioned against the politicization or exaggeration of security incidents, urging residents to support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing operations. Meanwhile, a representative of Operation Whirl Stroke disclosed that more troops have been deployed to Kwande Local Government Area to strengthen security and restrict the movement of criminal elements.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula, security officials expressed confidence that ongoing joint efforts would restore lasting peace and stability across Benue State.
