The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has visited Niger State to assess the security situation and ongoing operations on the ground following the recent attack and abduction of worshipers in communities in Dekara District of Borgu Local Government Area.
The visit to Disu on Saturday was at the Niger State Government House, where he was received by Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, who stood in for Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the Commissioner for Homeland Security, Maurice Magaji.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, the IGP extended the condolences of the Nigeria Police Force to the Niger State Government, residents and families of the victims.
He assured the state that the safe recovery of the abducted persons and the arrest of the perpetrators remain the main focus of the ongoing operations.
Disu commended the response of the state Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, and the prompt submission of situation reports by the command after the incident.
He also commended the Niger State Government for its continued support to the police, especially in the provision of operational vehicles, repairing of Armored Personnel Carriers and welfare assistance for security personnel.
IGP urges intelligence-led operations
Disu, during his interaction with officers and men of the Niger State Police Command, charged them to continue with intelligence-led and professionally coordinated operations with emphasis on the safety of victims and affected communities.
He assured the command of the continued support of Force Headquarters to enhance the logistics, mobility, intelligence, training and operational capacity of it.
The IGP also urged more cooperation between security agencies and more engagement with local communities.
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He specifically underlined the need to work with traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and enable quicker responses to security threats.
Deputy Governor Vows Support
Mr. Garba commended Disu for coming to the state personally to assess the security situation and boost the ongoing rescue efforts.
He reiterated the Niger State Government’s support for the police and other security agencies in their efforts to protect residents, restore peace and secure the release of the abducted worshipers.
Disu also called on the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Dr Umar Farouk Bahago during his visit.
The meeting was focused on improving collaboration with traditional institutions in the area of intelligence collection, community engagement and peace building throughout the state.
The Nigeria Police Force assured residents that efforts would be sustained to rescue the abducted persons, protect communities and bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice.
