The Labour Party candidate for the Otukpo/Akpa State Constituency, Comrade Isaac Ikpa, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the expansion of the Nigerian Army and the creation of the 5 Division Headquarters in Makurdi, Benue State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Ikpa described the decision to increase the number of Army divisions from eight to twelve as a strategic and timely move, particularly amid rising security concerns in Benue and other parts of Nigeria.
According to him, the expansion comes at a crucial period, as communities continue to face threats from armed criminals, kidnappers and bandits. He pointed to recent attacks in Otukpo Nobi, Akpachi and Ondo Ogobia as clear indications of the urgent need to strengthen security operations across Benue South.
While welcoming the Federal Government’s decision, Ikpa urged authorities to move quickly to establish a military base in Otukpo and begin work on the proposed Nigerian Army Barracks at Entina, along the Otukpo–Aliede Road.
He noted that the projects would boost the military’s presence in the area, enable security personnel to respond more rapidly to emergencies and improve protection for residents and surrounding communities.
The Labour Party candidate further urged the Federal Government to extend the security reforms to the Nigeria Police Force by establishing more police divisions in Otukpo and increasing recruitment to meet the security demands of the area’s expanding population.
Ikpa stressed that safeguarding lives and property should remain a top priority for any government. He expressed optimism that continued investment in Nigeria’s security agencies would help create a safer and more peaceful environment while supporting greater prosperity in Benue State and across the country.
