The Sarkin Hausawan Makurdi and Chairman of the Hausa Traditional Council of Chiefs in Benue State, His Royal Highness Imam Muhammad Sani Yusuf, has called for closer collaboration between traditional institutions and the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety across Benue State.
The royal father made the call on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4 Headquarters, Makurdi, AIG Dankombo F. Morris, at the Zonal Headquarters. The delegation was received alongside key management staff and senior police officers, while prominent traditional chiefs accompanied the monarch.
Congratulating AIG Morris on his appointment as the 44th Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4, Imam Yusuf commended the police chief for what he described as proactive security measures and operational foresight that have contributed to improved peace and stability in Benue State and across the Zone since he assumed office.
The traditional ruler stressed the need for sustained synergy between the police and traditional institutions in tackling criminal activities. He assured the AIG of the Hausa community’s readiness to provide timely and credible intelligence to support police operations. He appealed for regular community sensitisation programmes to educate residents on civic responsibilities and respect for the rule of law.
Responding, AIG Morris thanked the Sarkin Hausawan Makurdi for the visit and described the traditional ruler’s leadership as exemplary and inspiring to young people across the state. He reaffirmed the Zonal Command’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with traditional institutions in line with the principles of community policing.
The AIG noted that intelligence provided by community leaders remains critical to identifying and neutralising criminal elements, assuring the delegation that the command would continue to work closely with traditional rulers and other stakeholders to improve security and safeguard lives and property across the Zone.
ASP Ayo Oluwaseun Martins, Zonal Police Public Relations Officer Zone 4 Headquarters, Makurdi, says in a statement that the visit featured the signing of the visitors’ register by the royal father, special prayers for the AIG, and a ceremonial group photograph.
