The Benue State Police Command has directed the immediate dismantling of all illegal roadblocks, unauthorized checkpoints, and unlawful revenue collection points operating across the state. The directive, issued by Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, is intended to enhance public safety, improve traffic flow, and address complaints of extortion and harassment experienced by road users.

The Benue State Police Command has announced a statewide operation to remove all illegal roadblocks, unauthorized checkpoints, and unlawful revenue collection points operating on roads across the state.

The directive was issued by Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, and conveyed through a statement released by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet.

According to the command, the order covers all parts of Benue State, particularly major transport corridors including the Makurdi–Lafia, Makurdi–Gboko, Ugbema–Vandeikya, Gboko–Aliade, and Otukpo–Otukpa highways.

Police authorities said the action became necessary following persistent complaints from commuters and motorists regarding alleged harassment, extortion, unnecessary delays, and misconduct at unauthorized checkpoints.

To ensure immediate implementation, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Unit Commanders have been directed to enforce the order throughout their jurisdictions.

The command clarified that only officially approved security checkpoints established by recognized security agencies and staffed by properly identified personnel would be permitted to operate.

The directive comes amid growing public concern over the increasing number of checkpoints mounted along major roads in Benue State.

During his maiden press briefing, CP Nwadiogbu reaffirmed his commitment to improving security across the state, combating criminal activities, and ensuring that criminal elements do not operate freely.

He also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely intelligence that could assist in crime prevention and the protection of lives and property.

The commissioner further highlighted achievements recorded since assuming office, including the arrest of 10 suspects, the rescue of eight victims, the neutralization of three armed robbery suspects, and the recovery of 17 firearms, 36 rounds of ammunition, and military camouflage materials.

Observers say the success of the directive will largely depend on consistent enforcement and monitoring to prevent the re-emergence of unauthorized checkpoints across the state's road network.