Ember months: Benue Police Command holds strategic security review

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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, has reiterated the Command’s commitment to proactive policing, professional conduct and enhanced security across the State, particularly as the ember months, festive season and preparations for the 2027 general elections approach.

The Commissioner stated this during the Command’s strategic conference with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Heads of Departments and Tactical Commanders, where he reviewed operational activities and outlined key priorities for effective policing and public safety.

The review was part of measures to strengthen security during the ember months and the approaching festive period.

As part of the measures, the CP issued an operational order directing all Tactical Team Commanders to intensify effective security and ensure adequate operational readiness to prevent crime and respond promptly to emerging threats.

He charged officers to remain vigilant and sustain proactive, intelligence-led operations throughout the period.

In preparation for the 2027 General Elections, the CP directed officers to strengthen security planning, conduct threat assessments within their respective areas of responsibility and enhance collaboration with sister security agencies and relevant stakeholders.

Nwadiogbu also emphasised the need for proper coordination of political campaigns to prevent clashes and maintain public order.

The Commissioner further directed improved supervision of police checkpoints and policemen, strict enforcement of relevant traffic regulations and sustained efforts to prevent criminal activities.

He stressed the importance of discipline, impartiality, proper dress code and responsible communication, noting that the conduct of every police officer reflects on the image of the Nigeria Police Force.

He also called for stronger community engagement, adequate security for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and improved protection of schools through collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders.

The CP charged all officers to remain professional, disciplined and responsive to security challenges, while ensuring that all operations are conducted in accordance with the rule of law.

He reaffirmed the Command’s determination to safeguard lives and property, strengthen public confidence and ensure a peaceful environment for residents and visitors throughout Benue State.

He also stressed that officers must adhere strictly to the social media policy of the Nigeria Police Force, and shun such unprofessional conducts as misuse of firearms, incivility to members of the public, harassment, torture, extortion, unlawful arrest, over detention and inhuman treatment of detained suspects.