|By Chinwendu Nwani
The Emenari Ifeanyi has praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his dedication to combating armed herders and banditry across Benue State.
CP Ifeanyi made the remarks on Monday in Makurdi while providing security updates to journalists, highlighting that the police are working closely with other security agencies to safeguard rural communities against criminal elements.
He acknowledged the critical support of the state government, local authorities, community youths, and vigilante groups, describing their cooperation as essential for improving security. “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 agencies remain firmly on top of the situation, with joint operations ongoing to eliminate threats posed by armed herders and local bandits. Regular patrols are being conducted by the police, military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, while tactical teams are stationed in vulnerable areas.
CP Ifeanyi further noted that the Nigeria Police Force has deployed its air component to provide aerial support for ongoing operations. The Commissioner confirmed that a recent attack on June 13 by bandits in Asakpa, Ojantele, and Okpete communities of Apa Local Government Area resulted in six villagers losing their lives.
Following the attack, security forces, in collaboration with troops from Operation Whirl Stroke, launched a coordinated response, including drone surveillance, to track the assailants who fled into nearby forests. Additional reinforcements, including the Special Intervention Squad and the Counter Terrorism Unit of the police, have been deployed to prevent further incidents.
CP Ifeanyi also urged residents to avoid politicizing or exaggerating security situations, encouraging them instead to provide credible information to security agencies.
A representative of Operation Whirl Stroke confirmed that additional troops have been sent to Kwande Local Government Area to secure vulnerable communities and block key routes used by criminals.
In a statement on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, both security leaders expressed confidence that the ongoing joint operations will restore peace and stability across Benue State.
