The newly promoted Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Benneth Igweh, has formally inaugurated a new Police Divisional Headquarters in Igu, Bwari Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as part of efforts to tackle rising insecurity and improve the safety of residents in the area.
The establishment of the Igu Police Divisional Headquarters represents a significant step forward in enhancing security measures in the Bwari Area Council. AIG Igweh, formerly the Commissioner of Police for the FCT, expressed his satisfaction with this development, acknowledging the positive impact it is expected to have on local communities.
The new police division is set to provide coverage to several surrounding villages, including Veritas University, Zuma 1, Zuma 2, Gaba, Tukulo, Shere, and Kawu. Its presence is aimed at securing previously unpatrolled areas and providing safety to residents, many of whom have been affected by criminal activities, including banditry and kidnapping.
Speaking on the occasion, AIG Igweh, who was recently promoted to head Zone 7, underscored the significance of Igu as a key area that had long posed challenges to security forces. He emphasized that the creation of the police division is not only intended to address the immediate security concerns but also to provide a sustainable solution that will allow residents to return to their daily activities, such as farming, without fear.
The Executive Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Hon. Dr. John Gabaya, welcomed the inauguration, describing it as a landmark event. He highlighted the commitment of the present administration to ensuring the safety of lives and property within the Council. Dr. Gabaya thanked the federal authorities, including the President and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for their support in bolstering security in the area.
Dr. Gabaya reflected on the challenges the community faced due to insecurity, particularly over the past year when many residents were unable to go to their farms or engage in their regular businesses. He expressed his gratitude for the improvement in security and announced the donation of a brand new Toyota Hilux vehicle to the Igu Police Division to further enhance their operational capabilities.
Traditional rulers and other dignitaries were also in attendance at the ceremony. The Esu Bwari, His Royal Highness Ibrahim Yaro (JP), praised the efforts of Hon. Dr. Gabaya in spearheading security improvements across the Council. He also commended AIG Igweh for his professionalism and commitment to reducing crime during his tenure as Commissioner of Police.
In his remarks, the Sarkin Bwari, His Royal Highness Alhaji Auwal Musa Ijjakoro, represented by Dantani Dantsoho, expressed his appreciation to the Bwari Area Council Chairman for his dedication to infrastructural development, particularly in the area of justice and law enforcement.
The event was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious figures, political office holders, members of the Bwari legislative arm, party leaders, contractors, directors, and community residents. The new division is expected to greatly enhance security and contribute to the economic stability of the region.