By Safiyat Muhammed
Lokoja, Nigeria – Retired Naval Chief and statesman, Admiral Usman Jibrin, has raised a timely alarm urging communities across Kogi East—particularly in Igala Kingdom—to be proactive and prepared in the face of rising insecurity in neighbouring Benue State, allegedly fueled by attacks from Fulani herdsmen.
Speaking on the growing wave of violence and land-grabbing incidents reportedly perpetrated by armed herders in Benue, Admiral Jibrin stressed the need for Kogi to study the situation closely and implement preemptive strategies to safeguard its people and land.
“Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. We need to learn from the happenings in Benue State with a view to taking steps that could be beneficial to the people of Igala Kingdom,” he began in a public statement, calling for vigilance and local action in the absence of immediate federal intervention.
He outlined several practical, community-driven measures to enhance security and resilience:
1. Community Vigilance and Local Security Networks
Admiral Jibrin advocated for the establishment of responsible vigilante groups and neighborhood watch teams. These should work closely with youth leaders, traditional rulers, and local stakeholders to monitor and respond swiftly to security threats.
2. Strengthen Coordination with Local Authorities
He encouraged deeper collaboration between communities and local security committees, including the police and traditional institutions, to develop locally relevant security strategies and share intelligence.
3. Public Awareness and Emergency Preparedness
Regular community sensitization, emergency response training, and public drills were recommended. He also suggested the use of mobile alerts, walkie-talkies, and other tools to quickly spread information in crisis situations.
4. Improve Infrastructure and Physical Security
Communities were urged to secure entry points with checkpoints, reinforce gates, improve street lighting, and where possible, install surveillance systems to deter criminal activities.
5. Promote Peace and Internal Harmony
Admiral Jibrin emphasized the importance of mediation, peaceful dialogue, and conflict resolution within and among communities to reduce internal tensions that could be exploited by outsiders.
6. Seek Government and NGO Support
The former Naval Chief urged communities to request assistance from state security outfits and form partnerships with development agencies focused on safety and peace-building.
7. Develop Emergency Evacuation Plans
Lastly, he called on communities to map out safe zones, create evacuation procedures, and ensure residents are equipped with basic safety kits and know emergency hotlines.
Admiral Jibrin reiterated that while these community-led initiatives cannot replace the efforts of federal security agencies, they can serve as a critical buffer in times of crisis. His message is both a call to action and a warning that complacency in the face of growing regional insecurity could have grave consequences for Kogi East and beyond.
“We must act now—together, united, and prepared,” he concluded.
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