The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Emenari Ifeanyi, has praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his commitment to tackling insecurity, especially attacks linked to armed herders and bandits across the state.
The police boss gave the commendation on Monday while addressing journalists in Makurdi, where he provided updates on ongoing security operations. He said the state government has been playing a key role in supporting security agencies with resources and coordination needed to fight crime.
According to him, the efforts of Governor Alia have helped strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities. He noted that this cooperation has become a major factor in improving safety in many parts of 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, highlighting what he described as the governor’s strong commitment to protecting lives and property.
Benue State, located in Nigeria’s North-Central region, has for years faced security challenges, especially clashes between farmers and armed herders. These conflicts have led to the loss of lives, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of thousands of residents.
In recent times, attacks by bandits and suspected armed herders have increased in some rural communities, raising concerns among residents and authorities. The state government and security agencies have therefore stepped up efforts to address the situation.
Providing further details, CP Ifeanyi said the police are working closely with other security agencies, including the military, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, to secure communities across the state.
He explained that joint operations and patrols are being carried out regularly, especially in areas considered to be vulnerable. These operations, he said, are aimed at preventing attacks and responding quickly when incidents occur.
The police commissioner also noted that local authorities, vigilante groups, and community youths have been actively supporting security efforts. According to him, their involvement has helped improve intelligence gathering and early warning systems.
“We are working in synergy with all stakeholders to ensure that our rural communities are safe,” he said.
As part of the ongoing operations, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed its air component to provide aerial surveillance and support. This, he said, allows security forces to monitor difficult terrains and track the movement of criminal elements.
In addition, tactical teams of the police have been stationed in strategic locations across the state. These teams include specially trained officers equipped to respond to high-risk situations.
Despite these efforts, CP Ifeanyi confirmed that there have been recent attacks in some communities. He cited an incident that occurred on June 13 in Asakpa, Ojantele, and Okpete communities in Apa Local Government Area, where six villagers were killed by suspected bandits.
The attack, he said, prompted a swift response from security operatives. Working together with troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, the police launched a coordinated operation to track down the attackers.
He explained that the operation involved the use of drone technology to monitor the area and locate the suspects, who reportedly fled into nearby forests after carrying out the attack.
Following the incident, additional security reinforcements were deployed to the affected communities. These include the Special Intervention Squad and the Counter Terrorism Unit of the police, both of which are tasked with tackling serious security threats.
The police commissioner assured residents that these measures are already yielding results and that efforts are ongoing to arrest those responsible for the attack.
“We are firmly on top of the situation. Our operations are ongoing, and we are determined to eliminate all criminal elements in the state,” he said.
He also urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies by providing useful information. According to him, timely and accurate information from the public is essential for preventing attacks and catching criminals.
CP Ifeanyi warned against the politicisation of security issues, saying that exaggerating incidents or spreading false information could create unnecessary panic and undermine security efforts.
“Security is a collective responsibility. We need the cooperation of everyone to succeed,” he added.
Also speaking on the situation, a representative of Operation Whirl Stroke disclosed that additional troops have been deployed to Kwande Local Government Area. The aim, he said, is to strengthen security in vulnerable communities and block routes used by criminals to enter or leave the area.
Operation Whirl Stroke is a joint military task force established to address security challenges in Benue and other parts of the North-Central region. The operation has played a key role in responding to attacks and maintaining peace in affected areas.
Over the years, Benue State has been one of the hardest-hit by farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria. The clashes are often linked to disputes over land, grazing routes, and access to water, especially during the dry season.
The situation has been made worse by the presence of armed groups who take advantage of these conflicts to carry out attacks, loot property, and terrorise communities.
Successive governments in the state have introduced measures to address the crisis, including laws to regulate open grazing and promote ranching. However, implementation has faced challenges, and attacks have continued in some areas.
Governor Alia, who assumed office with a promise to restore peace, has continued to engage security agencies and community leaders in efforts to find lasting solutions. His administration has also focused on supporting displaced persons and rebuilding affected communities.
For many residents of Benue State, the hope is that ongoing efforts by the government and security agencies will bring lasting peace. Farmers are eager to return to their fields without fear, while communities want to live without the constant threat of attack.
