According to a statement issued on June 26, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the directive was given by the Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, psc(+), mnips, PhD. The order applies to all routes in the state, with particular attention to major federal highways, including the Makurdi-Lafia, Makurdi-Gboko, Ugbema-Vandeikya, Gboko-Aliade and Otukpo-Otukpa roads, among others.
The Command said the move is intended to enhance public safety, ensure the free flow of traffic and eliminate incidents of harassment, extortion and other illegal practices experienced by commuters on Benue roads.
To ensure full implementation, the Commissioner directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Unit Commanders to immediately enforce the order within their respective jurisdictions. He stressed that only security checkpoints duly approved by the appropriate authorities and manned by recognised security agencies with proper identification and full operational complement will be allowed to operate in the state.
The statement also urged members of the public to promptly report any cases of extortion, harassment or suspicious checkpoints to the nearest police station, security formation or relevant government agency for immediate action.
CP Nwadiogbu warned that anyone found establishing, operating or collecting revenue at unauthorised checkpoints would face appropriate disciplinary and legal sanctions in line with existing laws.
He further assured residents and road users that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and ensuring the safety of everyone travelling within Benue State.
The Command also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies by reporting suspicious persons, movements, vehicles and other criminal activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.