By Peter Duru
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to Benue State ahead of the 2026 Easter celebrations.
The move is aimed at strengthening safety across the state during the festivities.
The deployment includes 14 Units drawn from 16 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadrons, alongside 250 personnel from Specialised Tactical Teams to reinforce the Benue State Police Command.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, the operation is designed to enhance ongoing security arrangements during the festive period.
“This strategic deployment is aimed at strengthening ongoing security operations and ensuring the protection of lives and property across the state during the festive period,” the statement said.
The police explained that the newly deployed personnel have been integrated with existing tactical teams within the state, as well as other security agencies, to ensure a coordinated approach to security.
It added that the operatives would focus on dominating hinterlands, vulnerable communities, and key public spaces to deter criminal activities and reassure residents.
Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the IGP for the timely intervention, noting that the reinforcement would significantly enhance the command’s operational capacity.
He reassured residents of the command’s readiness to maintain law and order before, during, and after the Easter celebrations, urging the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities.
The CP also called on citizens to be vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and useful information, stressing that public support is critical to effective policing.
The command further urged residents to report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation or through designated emergency lines, 08066006475 and 07067374913, emphasising that collective responsibility remains key to achieving a safe and hitch-free celebration.
