Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has endorsed the Nigeria Police Force’s Operation Handshake Patrol, viewing it as a vital move to bolster border security and eradicate criminal bases. This initiative, spearheaded by Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, enables security personnel to track suspects across state lines, effectively removing jurisdictional obstacles that criminals previously exploited to escape justice.
The strategy was formalized during a joint session in Ankpa, where police chiefs from Benue and Kogi states initiated the taskforce. Benue Commissioner Cletus Nwudiogbu and Kogi Commissioner Naziru Bello Kankarofi stated that the program allows for seamless cooperation between their commands, permitting joint patrols against bandits and terrorists hiding in the forests between the two states.
Governor Alia pledged continued logistical support to ensure these security efforts succeed. Meanwhile, police leadership urged citizens to share intelligence rather than resorting to vigilantism. Lieutenant Colonel J.S. Monde of the 21 Brigade further confirmed that the military remains committed to assisting police efforts to restore order and safety in border regions.
