IGP Disu Drops Hammer: Benue Insecurity Ends Now, 14-Day Operation Launched
Makurdi, Benue State — The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has declared that the reign of terror in Benue State is over. Speaking at a high-stakes town hall meeting in Makurdi on Thursday, Disu announced a 14-day security operation to flush out criminals from 14 identified flashpoints across the state. This is not a promise. This is a directive from President Bola Tinubu himself: the killing, kidnapping, and chaos must stop.
Why Benue Became a Battlefield
Benue was once the pride of Nigeria — the nation's food basket, a land of peace and hospitality. But armed criminal herders, kidnappers, bandits, cultists, and local gangs turned it into a nightmare. Disu didn't mince words: “The insecurity in Benue is unacceptable. It has become a source of sleepless nights for the people and security agencies.” He warned that the cycle of attacks and reprisals would no longer be tolerated.
The 14-Day Operation: What You Need to Know
Assistant Inspector-General of Police Francis Iduh revealed that security forces have mapped out 14 major flashpoints for intensive clearance operations. Communities like Bajimba, Arufu, Agasha, Kwande, Agatu, Naka, Otukpo, Makurdi, and Apa are on the front line. The goal? Reclaim forests, farmlands, and criminal hideouts. “If communities partner with us and provide credible intelligence, we will deal with criminals without criminalising law-abiding citizens,” Iduh assured.
No More Political Thugs: Disu Warns Youths
Disu sent a sharp message to young people: don't let politicians use you as cannon fodder. “Young people often bear the greatest burden of these conflicts. Do not allow yourselves to be used as political thugs or agents of violence,” he warned. He also made it clear that only authorised security personnel can carry arms. Illegal firearms will be seized, and officers have been ordered to act decisively under Force Order 237 when facing armed criminals.
Governor Alia Backs State Police, Calls for Local Solutions
Governor Hyacinth Alia welcomed the IGP's visit as timely. He noted that insecurity has crippled farming and threatened Benue's status as Nigeria's food basket. His administration has provided operational vehicles, motorcycles, and communication gear to security agencies. Alia also threw his weight behind the creation of state police, arguing that local officers understand the terrain better. “The debate should no longer be whether we need state police, but how it should operate,” he said.
Traditional and Religious Leaders Unite Against Insecurity
The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, identified armed criminal herders, indigenous gangs, communal conflicts, and cult groups as the main threats. He alleged that some politicians may be profiting from the chaos and urged the police to investigate sponsors. Meanwhile, the Benue State Chairman of Jama'atu Nasril Islam, Alhaji Garba Baba, and the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, pledged support for peace efforts. Ugbede urged police to act quickly on security threats shared on social media.
What This Means for Benue and Nigeria
This is a defining moment. The IGP has promised to make Benue a regular destination until peace returns. “The police belong to the people. We are here to serve, not to dominate,” Disu declared. With a united front of security forces, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the community, Benue is taking back its peace. The message is clear: Africa's food basket will not be a haven for criminals. Not on our watch.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is the 14-day security operation in Benue?
It is a targeted clearance operation by the Nigeria Police Force to flush out armed criminals, kidnappers, and bandits from 14 identified flashpoints across Benue State. The operation aims to reclaim forests, farmlands, and criminal hideouts.
Who is leading the crackdown on insecurity in Benue?
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu is leading the effort, with direct backing from President Bola Tinubu. The operation is coordinated by the Police Mobile Force under Assistant Inspector-General Francis Iduh.
What role can communities play in restoring peace?
Community members, traditional rulers, and religious leaders are urged to provide credible intelligence to security agencies. The police have promised to protect informants and act on verified tips.
Is state police the solution for Benue's security challenges?
Governor Hyacinth Alia believes state police would be more effective because local officers understand the terrain and communities. The debate is now about implementation, not necessity.
