The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to intensify intelligence-led policing and strengthen collaboration with local communities to address the persistent security challenges in Benue State, particularly the farmer-herder conflict.
According to an official statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the IGP made the pledge during an official working visit to Benue State, where he met with Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia before holding a high-level strategic engagement with critical stakeholders at the State Government Banquet Hall in Makurdi.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth and women representatives, members of various farmers’ associations, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on the state’s pressing security concerns, with particular emphasis on finding lasting solutions to the recurring farmer-herder crisis.
Addressing the gathering, IGP Disu expressed concern over the proliferation of sophisticated firearms, describing it as a major factor fueling violence in communities across the state. He commended Governor Alia and community leaders for their support of security operations, stressing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through active cooperation between residents and security agencies.
The IGP urged citizens, especially young people, to promptly report suspicious activities, assuring them that all information provided would be treated with strict confidentiality. He also called for stronger synergy between conventional security agencies and local security outfits, noting that maintaining peace and public order requires a collective effort.
Governor Alia, in his remarks, thanked the IGP for undertaking a firsthand operational assessment of the security situation in the state, describing the visit as a demonstration of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to restoring peace under the IGP’s leadership.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, emphasizing 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.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the country while upholding professionalism and strengthening public confidence in policing.
