The deployment of police officers and security equipment to guarantee the safety of travelers on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway has been ordered by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
In addition, Egbetokun instructed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Operations, Ede Ekpeji, to oversee the vigilant monitoring of security personnel assigned to the route. He emphasized that the presence of the well-equipped operatives would serve as a deterrent to criminal activities.
This directive was communicated through a statement released early Thursday via the Nigeria Police Force’s handle on X. The statement was issued at the Force Headquarters in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The statement read, “The IGP, while directing the DIG Operations, DIG Ede Ayuba Ekpeji, on strict supervision of the personnel detailed for operations along the route, reiterated that the proactive step aims to reassure citizens and travellers of their safety, as the increased presence of security forces in the region will
“In response to the growing concerns regarding security along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has implemented robust measures to enhance safety and security in the region.”
Adejobi noted that the deployment will leverage “advanced technology and strategic resources to bolster the overall security infrastructure along the route..”
“The IGP, while directing the DIG Operations, DIG Ede Ayuba Ekpeji, on strict supervision of the personnel detailed for operations along the route, reiterated that the proactive step aims to reassure citizens and travellers of their safety, as the increased presence of security forces in the region will act as a deterrent to criminal activities,” the statement noted.
Egbetokun stressed the importance of collaborative effort as in “maintaining the security and well-being of all residents and travellers,” adding that the public should “remain vigilant” and “cooperate with security personnel” while discharging their duties.
“The IGP assures the public that these strengthened security measures are part of an ongoing commitment to ensuring a secure and peaceful environment,” the statement added.
At Katari along the Kaduna – Abuja highways, near Katari in the Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, it has been reported that terrorists abducted no fewer than 85 individuals, including both travelers and residents. Additionally, more than four residents were reportedly killed by the assailants.
The detailed account of those kidnapped by the ruthless terrorists reveals that between Thursday and Sunday, January 7, 2024, a total of 85 persons fell victim to abduction.
While the Kaduna State Police Command acknowledged a bandit attack on the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway at Dogon Fili near Katari, it did not provide information on the abduction of travelers along the same route.
