Ado Local Government Chairman Secures Flashlights and Communication Equipment to Boost Security Operations

By Innocent Igelle

In a proactive step to enhance security operations across Ado Local Government Area, the Executive Chairman, Engr. Sunny Oche, has procured a substantial number of flashlights and walkie-talkies to aid security operatives in their engagements.

The newly acquired equipment will be distributed among all security agencies operating within the Local Government including the Nigerian Army, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other allied security outfits involved in joint operations to safeguard lives and property.

According to Engr. Oche, the initiative became necessary due to the peculiar terrain of Ado, where criminal elements often exploit remote areas to perpetrate their acts, particularly at night. The new devices are expected to strengthen night-time surveillance, improve intelligence sharing, and enhance coordination during rapid response operations.

“With these gadgets, security efforts will now run round the clock, and intelligence gathering will become more effective,” the Chairman stated.

Since assuming office, Engr. Oche has made security a top priority. He has consistently demonstrated commitment to restoring peace and ensuring residents can once again travel freely, both day and night, without fear. Although relative calm has returned to parts of the Local Government, isolated threats remain in the hinterlands and boundary areas, especially incidents of motorcycle theft and abductions.

Recent cases including the disappearance of three Ijigban youths in a border town of Ebonyi State and recurring attacks in Okpirigwe, Ajode, Ulayi, and Agila have heightened concerns and displaced many farmers. This displacement has contributed to reduced agricultural output, food scarcity, and higher costs of farm produce.

The Chairman recalled that on August 15, 2024, twenty medical and dental students from University of Maiduguri and Jos abducted in Otukpo were successfully rescued in Ado’s Utonkon District through coordinated intelligence efforts; a testament to the effectiveness of joint security operations.

Beyond the provision of logistics, Engr. Oche has continued to engage in high-level security collaborations. He has held strategic meetings with stakeholders in Ebonyi State, including Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi (Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate), to foster cross-border peace and security cooperation. These engagements have yielded significant progress, such as the peaceful resolution of the 30-year-old crisis in Ndobashi settlement between communities in Ado and Eza Ezekunna.

In recognition of his leadership and commitment to safety, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia (Ph.D.)has designated Ado Local Government as the operational base of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (Zone C) code named Anyamnyor, comprising nine Local Government Areas. This strategic role positions Ado as the torchbearer in the collective quest for a safer Benue State.

“Security is a shared responsibility. Our administration will continue to provide the tools and collaboration necessary to keep our people safe,” Engr. Oche emphasized.

With this latest intervention, residents and security stakeholders in Ado Local Government are optimistic that the renewed emphasis on technology, collaboration, and vigilance will further consolidate peace and stability in the area.