Insecurity: Benue Launches Quick Response Squad
In a major step toward strengthening grassroots security and enhancing community protection, the Benue State Government has launched a Quick Response Squad (QRS) made up of non-conventional security outfits designed to rapidly respond to security threats across the state.
The outfit was launched by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode at the headquarters of the squad in Makurdi.
Ode, who represented Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, noted that the creation of the QRS reflects the administration’s unwavering commitment to securing lives and property across Benue’s 23 local government areas and 276 council wards.
He recalled that since assuming office, Governor Alia had prioritized security, beginning with the distribution of vehicles, motorcycles, and other equipment to bolster the operations of existing security agencies.
“This squad, being commissioned today, is a further demonstration of our resolve to combat insecurity with vigor. It is a joint task force of various security arms, initiated by the Governor to support and complement the work of conventional agencies,” Ode said.
He emphasized the need for absolute loyalty from squad members to the state government and urged them to work in full cooperation with established security structures.
The deputy governor revealed that the State Executive Council had initiated plans to set up a Benue State Security Trust Fund to serve as funding source for the QRS and other security efforts.
“By the authority vested in me by the Governor, I hereby empower the Quick Response Squad into operation today, the eighth day of July 2025, to the glory of God,” the Deputy Governor declared.
In his remarks, Special Adviser on Internal Security, Hon. Joseph Har, who doubles as the Deputy Protection General of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, described the QRS as a “Benue model” that is already attracting attention from other states.
The squad, he explained, is composed of members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Nigerian Forest and Security Services, and the Civilian Joint Task Force.
“We are not a replacement to the military or police. We are here to support them and to ensure a visible presence in all council wards. With this launch, residents of Makurdi can now sleep with both eyes closed,” Har said.
He also issued a stern warning to cultists and criminal elements to desist from their activities or face the full weight of the law. “If you are not a coward, join the military or the services and defend the land,” he said.
State Commander of the QRS, Rtd. Captain Ayuma Ajobi, praised the initiative and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of key stakeholders, including the Governor, Hon. Joseph Har, and the Chairman of Makurdi LGA, Hon. Joseph Keffi.
“This is an elite squad formed with the vision of being the first responders to any emerging crisis. Our long-term goal is to replicate this model across all 23 local government areas,” he added.
Ajobi expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s unwavering support, noting that the Civil Protection Guards and now the QRS owe their existence to his leadership.
In a goodwill message, Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state, Ota Williams, who represented the Commandant, described the QRS as a timely intervention that will boost intelligence gathering and reinforce conventional security agencies.
“Intelligence is the bedrock of security. You live among the people, you know what’s happening. If you see something, say something. Share information—this is how we succeed,” Williams advised.
Welcoming guests to the event, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government, Hon. Joseph Keffi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the QRS launch.
“This is a laudable achievement and we are proud to be part of it. As the chief host, I assure you of our continuous support,” Keffi said, urging QRS officers to approach their duties with dedication and a sense of responsibility.
In a move to foster community collaboration and rapid communication, the hotlines for the Quick Response Squad were also made public. Citizens can now reach the QRS via the following emergency lines: 09011777702 and 09011777703.
