DSP Udeme Edet

14/03/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE

POLICE INTENSIFY OPERATIONS FOLLOWING ATTACK ON FARMERS IN APA LGA; SIX BODIES RECOVERED, SEARCH AND RESCUE EFFORTS CONTINUE

In early hours of 13th March, 2026 at about, suspected armed herders attacked cashew farmers in Asaba, Ojantele, and Okpette communities, all in Apa LGA. The farmers were reportedly working on their farms when the assailants launched the attack.

Joint security teams comprising operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the military, and local youths from the affected communities immediately mobilized into the forest to carry out search and rescue operations with the aim of locating victims and apprehending the perpetrators.

At the end of the initial operation, six (6) lifeless bodies were recovered, efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety of residents in the affected communities.

The Commissioner of Police Benue State Command CP Ifeanyi Emenari PhD,psc,mnips wishes to assure the public that reinforcements have been sent to facilitate a more thorough and coordinated operation in the affected forests with the aim of tracking down those responsible for the attack.

In the meantime, patrols have been intensified across the affected communities and the entire state to prevent any further attacks and to reassure residents of the continued readiness of security operatives to always confront such attacks.
Members of the public are urged to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that may assist ongoing operations.

Signed
DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Benue State Command
14th March 2026

12/03/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE

BENUE STATE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE CHARGES SCREENING OFFICIALS TO UPHOLD TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY IN ONGOING POLICE CONSTABLE RECRUITMENT EXERCISE

The Benue State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the screening exercise for candidates shortlisted for recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force as Police Constables is currently ongoing at the Police Officers Mess Makurdi, which commenced on march 9th, 2026.

Today, 12th March, 2026, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, PhD, psc, mnips, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Yakubu Muhammad, addressed members of the screening teams comprising officials of the Police Service Commission, Federal Character Commission and officers of the Nigeria Police Force deployed to conduct the exercise in Benue State.

In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police commended the screening teams for the professionalism and commitment demonstrated since the commencement of the exercise. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness throughout the recruitment process.

CP Emenari particularly cautioned all officers and officials involved in the exercise to shun corruption in all its forms, stressing that the screening process must not be seen as an opportunity for extortion or personal gain. He warned that any officer found engaging in corrupt practices would face strict disciplinary action in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police also encouraged shortlisted candidates and the good people of Benue State to remain law-abiding and to participate in the exercise peacefully while complying with all laid down procedures and instructions provided by the screening officials.

The Benue State Police Command reassures the public that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure a credible, transparent, and hitch-free screening exercise as part of the ongoing recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force.

The Command further calls on members of the public to promptly report any form of misconduct, extortion, or irregularities observed during the exercise to the appropriate authorities.

Signed

DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Benue State Command.
12th March 2026

11/03/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE

BENUE POWA EMPOWERS 100 WOMEN WITH FOOD ITEMS TO MARK INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

The Benue State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Benue State Chapter, carried out an empowerment programme aimed at supporting vulnerable women in the state.

The initiative, which took place on 10th March 2026 at the Police Officers’ Mess, Makurdi, saw the distribution of food items and other essential food stocks to one hundred (100) women as part of efforts to alleviate hardship and promote social support within the community.

The programme was organized under the leadership of the Chairperson, POWA Benue State Chapter, Mrs. Ujunwa Emenari, who was ably represented at the event by Mrs. Anne Ruben, wife of the Area Commander, Katsina-Ala Area Command, Benue State.

The outreach was conducted in line with the humanitarian initiative of the National President of POWA, Mrs. Disu Mutiat Olufunmilola, wife of the Inspector-General of Police, who encouraged Commands across the country to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day through acts of charity and empowerment under the theme “Give to Gain.”

Beneficiaries of the programme expressed deep appreciation to the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and POWA for the kind gesture, noting that the support would go a long way in assisting their families.

The Benue State Police Command reiterates its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote community welfare, social inclusion, and the empowerment of vulnerable groups, while also strengthening the relationship between the police and members of the public.

DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Benue State Command
11th March 2026.

06/03/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND

PRESS RELEASE

BENUE STATE GOVERNOR AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO CHILDREN OF FALLEN POLICE OFFICERS

The Benue State Police Command wishes to commend His Excellency The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Father Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his compassionate gesture in awarding scholarships to twelve (12) children of deceased police officers in the State.

The scholarship presentation ceremony, which held on 5th March 2026, at Government College Makurdi,was part of the State Government’s continued support to the families of police officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty while protecting lives and property.

Representing the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Emenari Ifeanyi Innocent PhD, Psc,mnips, at the event was the Deputy Commissioner of Police Finance and Administration, DCP Mohammed Yakubu, alongside members of the Command Management Team and the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA).

While presenting the scholarship awards, Governor Alia sympathized with the families of the fallen officers and reassured them of the State Government’s commitment to continually support them. He emphasized that children represent the future of society and stressed that education remains the most important tool in shaping responsible leaders and building a better society.

The Governor further noted that the sacrifices made by the deceased officers in the service of the nation will never be forgotten, adding that supporting their children’s education is a modest way of honoring their bravery and dedication.

The Benue State Police Command deeply appreciates this noble gesture and expresses gratitude to the Governor for his consistent concern for the welfare of police families. The Command believes that such support will greatly motivate serving officers who continue to risk their lives daily to maintain peace and security across the State.

The Command reassures the good people of Benue State of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and sustaining collaboration with the State Government and other stakeholders in ensuring a safer society.

DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police,
Benue State Command
5th March, 2026

05/03/2026

*BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND*

*PRESS RELEASE*

2025/2026 POLICE CONSTABLE RECRUITMENT: NPF, PSC TO COMMENCE PHYSICAL AND CREDENTIAL SCREENING FROM MONDAY, 9th MARCH 2026.

The Benue State Police Command wishes to announce to the general public, particularly applicants from Benue State, that the physical and credentials screening exercise for the recruitment of
General Duty and Specialist Police Constables into the Nigerian Police Force, will commence from Monday, 9th March, 2026, to Saturday, 18th April, 2026.

*Venue* :-Police Central Barracks Police Football Field Makurdi
Time: 7:00 am Daily

*Applicants are advised to take note of the following:*

1. The exercise will be conducted from 9th March to 18th April 2026.

2. Applicants are required to log in to the recruitment portal at https://apply.policerecruitment.gov.ng to confirm their status and print relevant documents.

3. Applicants are to report strictly according to the date indicated on their invitation slip.

4. All applicants must bring the following items neatly arranged in two white flat files:

i. Application Submission Slip

ii. Physical Screening Form

iii. Invitation Slip (with table number)

iv. Credential Screening Form

v. National Identity Number (NIN) printout/card

vi. O’Level Certificate(s)

vii. Birth Certificate/Age Declaration

Viii. Local Government/State of Origin Certificate

ix. Trade Test result (for specialist applicants)

x. Completed Guarantors Form with passport photographs

xi. Credentials arranged in two white files with recent passport photographs

5. Dress Code: Applicants are to report at the screening venue wearing white canvas shoes, white T-shirts, white shorts, and white stockings.

6. Applicants who fail to present the above-listed documents, adhere to the dress code, or report outside their scheduled date will not be considered for screening.

7. The Commissioner of Police, CP Emenari Ifeanyi innocent PhD, PSC, MNIPS, wishes all shortlisted applicants a successful screening exercise. He has also warned that the recruitment exercise is absolutely FREE. Members of the public are urged to report anyone demanding or receiving money in connection with the exercise.

The Command therefore urges all applicants to cooperate fully and adhere strictly to all guidelines and ensure proper preparation for both physical and credential screening to facilitate a smooth and effective recruitment process.

DSP UDEME EDET
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Benue State Command

5th March, 2026

27/02/2026

POLICE SERVICE COMMISSION

PRESS RELEASE

RECRUITMENT OF 50,000 POLICE CONSTABLES: PSC, NPF to Commence Physical and Credential Screening from 9th March, 2026

In continuation of the ongoing recruitment of Constables into the Nigeria Police Force, all candidates who successfully completed the online recruitment registration exercise are hereby notified that physical and credential screening have been scheduled to hold between 9th March, 2026 and 18th April, 2026, across the federation.

Applicants are requested to login to the recruitment portal: npfapplication.psc.gov.ng, to check their status and print the following documents which they must present at the screening venue on the date and time indicated in their Invitation Slip:
(i). Guarantors form;
(ii). Application Submission Slip;
(iii). Invitation Slip;
(iv). Credentials Screening Form;
(v). Physical Screening Form.

Consequently, items to be presented during the Screening are:
1. Invitation Slip (with assigned TABLE);
2. Credential Screening Form;
3. Original National Identity Number (NIN) printout or Card issued by NIMC;
4. O’ Level (GCE/SSCE) Certificate;
5. Birth Certificate or Declaration of age;
6. LGA/State of Origin Certificate;
7. Trade Test/Certificate (for Specialists only);
8. Duly completed and signed Guarantors form with photocopies and passports of referees attached.
9. Original and duplicate copies of credentials are to be neatly packaged in two separate white flat files, with recent passport photographs attached.

The applicants are to appear at the various screening venues wearing white canvas shoes, white T-shirts, white shorts, and white stockings.

The screening exercise will take place at designated locations within each State/FCT as indicated on the invitation printout.

The Chairman, Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), mni, reiterates that the recruitment exercise is absolutely free of charge and without any pecuniary obligation. The Chairman assures that the process will be conducted in the best tradition of transparency and accountability. He advises the applicants to be wary of online impostors, scammers and other criminal elements who might want to take advantage of the recruitment process to defraud innocent applicants, stating that anyone found wanting will be arrested and prosecuted.

Torty Njoku Kalu,
Spokesman, Police Service Commission,
PSC Headquarters, Abuja.
24 February 2026

17/02/2026

PRESS RELEASE

CP EMENARI IFEANYI INNOCENT, PhD, PSC, MNIPS, DECORATES 456 NEWLY PROMOTED OFFICERS IN BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND

The Nigeria Police Force, Benue State Command, decorates newly promoted officers from the rank of Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II), following the recent nationwide promotion exercise approved by the Inspector-General of Police.

In what has been described as one of the largest promotion exercises in the history of the Force, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, NPM, recommended to Police Service Commission who subsequently approved the promotion of 26,119 Inspectors to the rank of ASP II across the country. This milestone reflects the commitment of the Force leadership to rewarding diligence, professionalism, and years of meritorious service.

In Benue State, a total of 456 Inspectors successfully benefited from this promotion. The decoration ceremony, held at the Command Headquarters in Makurdi, was graced by senior officers, families, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to witness and celebrate the elevation of the deserving officers.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Emenari Ifeanyi innocent PhD, Psc, mnips, while congratulating the newly promoted officers, expressed gratitude to God, the Police Service Commission and the IGP for the promotion, and charged them to see their new rank as a call to greater responsibility, leadership, integrity, and service to the people of Benue State and Nigeria at large. He emphasized that promotion comes with higher expectations in discipline, operational efficiency, community engagement, and respect for human rights.

The Command reiterates its commitment to strengthening professionalism and boosting morale within the Force. The decoration of these officers is not only a recognition of past performance but also an investment in improved service delivery, enhanced security operations, and better community policing across the state.

The Benue State Police Command congratulates all the newly decorated ASP IIs and wishes them success in their new roles.

Signed:
DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO)
Benue State Command
Makurdi, Benue State.
FEBRUARY 16 2026

15/02/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE

POLICE OPERATIONS ENFORCE SAFE RELEASE OF KIDNAPPED CHURCH WORSHIPPERS IN ADO LGA; FOUR SUSPECTED KIDNAPPERS ARRESTED, ARMS AND AMMUNITION RECOVERED; IGP DEPLOYS AIR WING AND TACTICAL TEAMS TO STRENGTHEN SECURITY IN BENUE STATE.

The Benue State Police Command working in synergy with sister security agencies wishes to reassure the good people of Benue State and the general public of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, following the successful rescue of victims abducted during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church, Ojeji, Ado Local Government Area.

On 11th February, 2026, operatives of the Ado Division, acting on credible intelligence, arrested two suspects—Abubakar Jibril (male) and Ashiru Ibrahim (male)—in connection with the night-vigil kidnapping incident. The suspects were found in possession of five (5) rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.

In line with established investigative procedures, the suspects were handed over to the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) for further investigation. Acting swiftly on follow-up intelligence, the IRT, in a joint operation with tactical teams of the Benue State Police Command, raided the hideout of Ashiru Ibrahim on 14th February, 2026. The operation led to the recovery of one (1) AK-47 rifle and eight (8) rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, as well as the arrest of two additional suspects believed to be key members of the kidnapping syndicate.

Investigations so far have clearly established that the arrested suspects are directly linked to the abduction that occurred during the night vigil at St. John Catholic Church.

As a result of sustained pressure mounted through coordinated search-and-rescue operations across the Ado axis and adjoining communities, the kidnapped victims were successfully released unhurt. Efforts have since been intensified to track down and apprehend other fleeing members of the criminal network, as the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the IGP Intelligence Response Team (IRT) continues comprehensive investigations to ensure that all those connected to this crime are brought to justice.

In further demonstration of the resolve to decisively confront kidnapping and banditry, the Inspector-General of Police has approved the deployment of the Police Air Wing for aerial surveillance and operations, alongside the reinforcement of additional tactical teams to Benue State. This proactive deployment is aimed at strengthening security dominance, improving intelligence-led operations, and denying criminal elements any operational space within the state.

The Benue State Police Command acknowledges and appreciates the collective support and cooperation received during the operation, particularly the support of the Benue State Government, the leadership of the Catholic Diocese who championed the non-kinetic approach, the Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, and the effective collaboration of sister security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, the Benue Civil Protection Guard, and other security stakeholders. This unified approach greatly contributed to the successful rescue of the victims and underscores the strength of inter-agency cooperation in safeguarding lives and property in Benue State.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, PhD, psc, mnips, reassures the people of Benue State that the Command remains fully mobilized, strategically positioned, and resolute in its determination to eliminate kidnapping, banditry, cultism and all forms of violent crime across the state.

Further developments will be communicated accordingly.

Signed:
DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
For: The Commissioner Of Police
Benue State Police Command
15th February, 2026.

07/02/2026

07/02/2026

BENUE STATE POLICE COMMAND
PRESS RELEASE

POLICE OPERATIVES RECOVER 117 ROUNDS OF LIVE AMMUNITION IN UKUM AND REPELLED ATTACK IN APA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

The Benue State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the arrest of a suspect and the recovery of live ammunition in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

On 06 February 2026, at about 0845 hours, operatives of the Command, received credible information regarding the movement of a male suspect identified as Saamoga, also known as Aleki, who was allegedly conveying live ammunition from Gbagir to Zaki-Biam on a commercial motorcycle.

Based on the information, a patrol team was immediately mobilised and deployed to Tse Dubem area of Ukum Local Government Area, where a stop-and-search operation was conducted. Upon sighting the police patrol team, the suspect reportedly disembarked from the motorcycle and attempted to evade arrest. In the course of the operation, the suspect was immobilised with a shot to the leg and taken into custody.

A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of one hundred and seventeen (117) rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition concealed inside socks within his handbag. Other items recovered include charms and a mobile phone.

During preliminary investigation, the suspect confessed that the ammunition was being conveyed to Taraba State. The suspect was subsequently taken to the General Hospital, Zaki-Biam, for medical attention, where he later died while receiving treatment.

In a separate development, the Command on the 6th of February 2026 received a situation report on an attack by suspected armed Fulani herdsmen on Edikwu Icho in Apa Local Government Area. The attack was repelled through the efforts of operatives of the Benue State Police Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS). Following the intervention, the general security situation in Apa Local Government Area remains calm.

Additionally, the bridge linking Ugbokpo, Idogbu, Ochumeku, and Ikobi, which was earlier burnt by suspected herdsmen, is currently being replaced. Reconstruction work is ongoing under heavy security presence to ensure the safety of personnel and members of the public.

The Command acknowledges the continuous support and collaboration received from other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Civil Protection Guard, and relevant Benue State Government officials, whose synergy with the Police has remained instrumental in the successful ex*****on of operations and the maintenance of peace and public safety across the State.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, PhD, psc, mnips, has commended the officers and men of the Command for their prompt response and professionalism across the affected areas. The Commissioner of Police further reassures the good people of Benue State of the Command’s commitment to sustaining proactive and intelligence-led policing towards ensuring the safety and security of lives and property across the State.

The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and continue to cooperate with the Police by providing timely and credible information that can aid crime prevention and detection.

Signed:
DSP Udeme Edet
Police Public Relations Officer
Benue State Police Command
7th February 2026