- Benue Police Command prohibits protests, citing security concerns and a delicate security situation in the state
- The police intensify security measures and urge stakeholders to discourage protest participation during this sensitive period
The Police Command in Benue has issued a warning that it will not authorize any form of protest within the state for the time being. This announcement was made through a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene.
The police command is aware of a planned protest by a group of individuals in the state, but it sees this as an attempt to undermine the efforts of the security agencies in managing the current delicate security situation in Benue.
According to the police spokesperson, allowing protests at this time could provide an opportunity for hoodlums and other criminal-minded individuals to cause chaos. The police have called on those considering protesting to reconsider their actions, as the environment is not conducive for any form of protest.
In response to the situation, Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers have been directed to enhance security in their respective areas of responsibility and prevent any attempts by protesters to disrupt the peace. Stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth leaders, and parents, are also urged to advise their children and wards to avoid protests during this sensitive period.
The police command reaffirms its commitment to fighting crime and urges the public to provide timely and useful information for prompt action.
Benue State has recently faced recurring criminal activities, including a daring armed robbery attack on the Otukpo Divisional Police Station, during which five banks were robbed and nine people, including a Divisional Police Officer and three other police officers, were killed.