The Inspector General (I-G) of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the creation of two area commands and the upgrade of five police stations to divisions in Benue.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, made the disclosure in a statement on Wednesday in Makurdi.

Edet said that the structural adjustments were necessitated by the challenges that befell the command in the course of policing troubled areas.

“An appraisal of the current security challenges and operations carried out in recent times reveals that some geographical gaps exist between the police and the people in some local government areas, and hence, the adjustment.

“The two area commands created are Daudu Area Command and Naka Area Command, while the five police stations that have been upgraded to police divisions are Ayilamo, Yelwata, Jato-Aka, Okpokolo and Agan police divisions.

“Daudu Area Command shall supervise Guma, Daudu, Yelwata and Agan Police Divisions, while Naka Area Command shall supervise Naka, Apa, Agatu and Okpokolo police divisions.

“This adjustment will assist the command in policing troubled areas with large and difficult terrains.

“These divisions will also ensure quick resolution of conflict between farmers and herders and facilitate quick response to distress calls,” he stated.

Edet further said that the Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr Emenari Ifeanyi, appreciated the I-G for his continuous support to the command and the crucial adjustment.

She quoted the CP as saying that adjustments were geared toward bringing permanent solutions to the challenges bedevilling the areas.

He said the CP also appreciated Gov. Hyacinth Alia for his continued support to the command to ensure the security of lives and property.