Benue police command assures public of school safety despite national kidnap incidents

Commissioner of police confirms tightened security and deployment of personnel across the state

The Benue State Police Command has provided firm assurances to the public regarding the security of schools across the state, following recent high-profile kidnap incidents targeting schoolchildren in other parts of the country.

Mr. Emenari Ifeanyi, the State Commissioner of Police, informed newsmen that the Command has significantly tightened security measures both within and around educational institutions in Benue. This proactive response aims to restore public confidence and preempt any potential threats to students and staff.

The Commissioner’s statement serves as a direct counter-narrative to the widespread fear gripping communities across Nigeria concerning school safety. He emphasized that the Police Command is fully compliant with directives from the nation’s top security hierarchy. The immediate implementation of enhanced security protocols is intended to ensure that the academic environment remains secure for continued learning.

Deployment includes schools protection squad and permanent personnel

Mr. Ifeanyi confirmed that the Command’s strategy involves several layers of security deployment. Aside from utilizing the specialized Schools Protection Squad (SPS) of the Nigeria Police Force, the Command has specifically posted permanent security personnel to several schools across the state. This focused deployment strategy is particularly concentrated on girls’ schools, which are often perceived as more vulnerable targets for criminal elements.

The Commissioner explained that even before the latest incidents, security men had been strategically posted to public schools. He clarified that while some schools now benefit from permanent security men, others are covered by men deployed to carry out routine patrols. This robust coverage is designed to provide both a static presence and dynamic surveillance across the state’s educational facilities.

Inspector general of police directs securing of schools and worship centres

The Commissioner further disclosed that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has issued a nationwide directive mandating that all schools and worship centres be secured. This comprehensive directive extends the security focus beyond schools to include places of worship, such as mosques and churches. The IGP’s order underscores a national recognition of the heightened security risks facing vulnerable public centers.

Ifeanyi stressed that this mandate is being strictly followed by Commissioners of Police across the country, ensuring a synchronized national effort to curb such attacks. He detailed practical measures instituted at the local level to ensure rapid response. These measures include asking school principals to keep police telephone numbers readily available, enabling them to call the police immediately for necessary action should any security incident arise.

Training programs organized for students and teachers

In addition to physical deployment, the Command is implementing non-kinetic security measures to empower the educational community. The Police Command has organized specialized training programs designed to teach both teachers and students what immediate steps to take if an incident occurs. These preparedness programs focus heavily on clear communication protocols and the proper method for contacting the police without delay.

The Commissioner proudly asserted that these integrated measures ensure that the state’s schools are “properly covered.” This multifaceted approach—combining physical presence, routine patrols, and preparedness training—aims to build a resilient and alert school environment capable of deterring and responding to threats effectively. The focus is on ensuring the safety of all children and personnel.

Yuletide security measures emplaced across troubled areas

Addressing broader security concerns, Commissioner Ifeanyi provided assurances regarding the forthcoming Yuletide season. The Command has put in place proactive measures to ensure that the entire state remains safe and citizens can enjoy the festive period without fear of crime. This security framework extends beyond schools to cover all potential flashpoints during the holiday season.

The Command has activated a decentralized, high-level operational strategy for the Christmas and New Year period. Members of the management team have been posted to the hinterland, with other commands being overseen by Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners. Furthermore, tactical teams have been deployed to all “troubled areas” to maintain order.

Synergy with sister agencies ensures comprehensive security coverage

Ifeanyi confirmed the heightened presence of competent police teams across the entire state. These personnel are strategically deployed in the nooks and crannies of Benue to maintain peace, particularly in seemingly volatile areas. The Command is also strongly encouraging members of the public to report any suspicious movement immediately to their local Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders.

Crucially, the police are working in synergy with a wide network of sister security agencies. This collaborative effort includes the military, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Civil Protection Guard, forest guards, the Hunters Association, and local government chairmen. The coordinated effort aims to ensure that the state does not witness any form of crime during the entirety of the festive season.