Benue Police Tighten Security Ahead of Eid-el-Kabir, Children’s Day Celebrations

The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, has ordered intensified security patrols across major highways, worship centres, recreational facilities and other vulnerable locations in the state ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The festive period also coincides with the Children’s Day celebration, prompting the police command to strengthen visibility policing and other security measures to safeguard residents and visitors.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet.

According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police noted that festive periods are often marked by large gatherings at Eid prayer grounds, parks, relaxation centres, highways and other public spaces as families and loved ones come together to celebrate.

The CP subsequently directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Heads of Departments to implement watertight security measures within their jurisdictions.

“The command has specifically ordered intensified patrols along major highways, worship centres, recreational facilities and other vulnerable points across the state. Visibility policing has also been strengthened to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the festive period,” the statement read in part.

Emenari also assured parents and guardians that adequate security arrangements had been made to protect children participating in Children’s Day activities across the state.

The command, however, issued a stern warning to criminal elements and hoodlums to stay away from Benue, stressing that security agencies are fully prepared to deal decisively with any attempt to disrupt public peace and order.

Residents were also urged to remain security conscious, report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest police station, and cooperate with security personnel deployed to strategic locations.

Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha, is one of the most significant Islamic festivals commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.

The celebration is usually marked with special prayers, the slaughtering of livestock such as rams, cows and goats, and the sharing of meat with family members, neighbours and the less privileged as symbols of sacrifice, faith and charity.