IGP orders end to banditry in Benue before 2026 deadline

The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, on Tuesday disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police has directed a total crackdown on banditry in the state before the end of 2026. Emenari made this known at the police headquarters in Makurdi while addressing journalists shortly after a walkathon organised by the command to mark […]

The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, on Tuesday disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police has directed a total crackdown on banditry in the state before the end of 2026.

Emenari made this known at the police headquarters in Makurdi while addressing journalists shortly after a walkathon organised by the command to mark the 2026 Police Week.

He said the directive from the IGP is backed by the provision of adequate manpower and logistics to strengthen operations and improve security across the state.

The police commissioner noted that the state government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, has also provided maximum support, adding that the command is working in synergy with other security agencies and the 23 local government council chairmen to tackle insecurity.

Emenari described the 2026 Police Week as a reflection of improved security efforts and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard lives and property.

He assured residents that the command would sustain the gains recorded, while urging the public to cooperate with the police by providing credible information to help track down criminal elements.

The commissioner commended officers and other security agencies for participating in the walkathon and acknowledged the media as a critical partner in peacebuilding.