The recent bank robbery in Otukpo, Benue State, has been attributed to a lack of intelligence by the security agencies, according to Senator Patrick Aba Moro. The robbers, who struck on October 20, killed the Otukpo Divisional Police Officer, John Adikwe, three other policemen, and four civilians both inside and outside the bank premises.
During a press briefing after sponsoring a motion titled “Otukpo Robbery Attack: Urgent Need for Investigation and Intervention” in the Senate, Senator Moro expressed his concern over the absence of intelligence and counterattacks from the security operatives. He questioned how a group of armed robbers could enter the town, operate for about an hour, and escape without any knowledge or response from the security checkpoints.
“We have several security checkpoints,” Senator Moro stated. “The police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Federal Roads Safety Corps, and the Department of State Services—all of them. None of them had any idea that 60 armed men were planning to invade Otukpo. Where is the intelligence? When the attack happened, none of the agencies could mobilise a counterattack.”
When asked about his stance on state police for community policing, Senator Moro explained that his initial opposition was due to most states struggling to pay workers’ salaries and meet basic needs. However, considering the recent security challenges, he emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering and collaboration between security agencies and the local communities.
In his motion before the Senate, Senator Moro highlighted the fact that the robbers operated for over an hour with minimal resistance, holding the entire town hostage. The criminals made away with millions of naira from the banks and seized arms and ammunition from the police command.
As a result, the Senate has passed resolutions urging the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the invasion and the loss of innocent lives. They have also called on the security agencies to address the question of the lack of intelligence and alertness on the day of the incident.
Additionally, the Red Chamber has appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief materials for the rehabilitation of the Otukpo Police Command.
The tragic bank robbery in Otukpo serves as a grim reminder of the importance of intelligence gathering and effective collaboration between security agencies. It is crucial for the Nigerian government and the relevant authorities to address these issues promptly to prevent further attacks and protect the lives and properties of citizens nationwide.
