…Calls for intelligence sharing, warns against proliferation of illegal firearms
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has pledged to intensify security operations in Benue State through intelligence-led policing and stronger collaboration with local communities as part of efforts to address the state’s persistent security challenges, particularly the farmer-herder conflict.
The assurance came during a strategic security meeting held at the Benue State Government Banquet Hall in Makurdi, where the IGP met with Governor Hyacinth Alia and a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women groups, as well as representatives of farmers’ associations.
Speaking at the meeting, IGP Disu described the proliferation of sophisticated firearms as a major factor fueling recurring violence across communities in the state, stressing the need for a coordinated response involving security agencies and the public.
He urged residents, especially young people, to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities, assuring them that all information received would be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
The Inspector-General also called for closer collaboration among conventional security agencies, local security outfits and community leaders, maintaining that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective action and shared responsibility.
He commended Governor Alia, traditional institutions and community leaders for their continued support for security operations, noting that local cooperation remains critical to restoring lasting peace and stability in Benue State.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, in his remarks, thanked the Inspector-General for undertaking a firsthand assessment of the security situation in the state, describing the visit as a demonstration of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to addressing security concerns in Benue.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to protect lives and property, stressing that creating a safe environment where residents can live, work and farm without fear remains a top priority.
He also commended the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C. Nwadiogbu, for his efforts in combating crime and strengthening police-community relations across the state.
The Inspector-General’s visit forms part of ongoing engagements with state governments and critical stakeholders aimed at improving intelligence gathering, strengthening community policing and enhancing the operational response of the Nigeria Police Force to emerging security threats across the country.
