From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
Following the killings in Benue State, the Commandant General (CG) of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ahmed Audi has given a marching order to the zonal commander and the state commandant to deploy covert operatives, special forces and all tactical units to every nook and cranny of the state with a view to getting the perpetrators to book.
The CG made this statement during a visit to the state for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation alongside other security chiefs.
At the same time, he sought for a collaboration with other stakeholders to enhance a well co-ordinated operations for a renewed onslaught against the evil perpetrators.
“These killings must stop, and we must be very strategic, decisive, and resilient in our approach to restoration of peace and order in the state.
“All hands must be on deck. There must be maximum deployment of all special forces, counter-terrorism unit, and intelligence operatives for both covert and overt operations.
“Just as Mr. President has directed, the perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to book, and we need to be on top of our game to make this happen,” the CG stated.
Audi further assured that the high command of the NSCDC would deploy more tactical operatives and logistics to support the Benue Command in boosting its operation for a more effective security coverage and promised to work closely with the military, Department of Security Service (DSS), the Nigeria Police, the indigenous security apparatus and the critical stakeholders within the communities to gather credible information that would lead to the arrests of those who carried out the dastardly act.
The NSCDC helmsman thanked the governor Rev. Father Hyacinth Alia for the support to the state command and reaffirmed his commitment to the restoration of peace, order and the safeguarding of all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) as well as the good people of the state.
In a statement, he decried the mindless killing of armless women and children in the unfortunate incident that erupted recently, noting that there was no justification whatsoever for the gruesome murder of innocent citizens.