Insecurity: Benue Links raises alarm, advises drivers to avoid night travel

State-owned Benue Links Transport Company has urged their drivers to be security conscious wherever they find themselves, given the current security situation in the country.

The General Manager, Comrade Alexander Fanafa, gave the advice to drivers at the company’s Head Office in Makurdi.

He stressed the need for peace, stating, “We need peace in this country, and we must all preach peace, give out peace, invite peace, and live in harmony without discrimination based on religion, tribe, or ethnicity.”

Fanafa emphasized that the transport business requires peace more than any other business in the country, as drivers move from every part of the nation, and therefore, there is a need to protect one another.

He outlined key security measures, advising drivers to “avoid unnecessary and unhealthy jokes that may trigger chain reactions, watch your environment, and be vigilant.”

Fanafa further explained that security is a collective responsibility that involves everyone, and it is essential that everyone works together to help the Gov. Alia administration to fight insecurity and manage the crisis situation in Benue State.

He pleaded with drivers to pay attention to instructions regarding security matters.

“As you go about your duties, be alert, avoid conversations that may trigger crises, and do not communicate negatively in a manner that may incite trouble.”

He also emphasized the importance of not discriminating and mixing together despite differences to transact business and work together as a people.

Fanafa warned against conveying goods or items without proper inspections.

“No waybill should be collected without being opened for their proper check or inspection.”

He advised drivers to ascertain passengers’ luggage and waybills to confirm their contents and alert the head office or the closest security officer if they find any counterfeit items.

Fanafa further advised drivers to avoid driving at night and, if necessary, to drive into a police or military checkpoint or station to sleep over with passengers and continue their journey during the day when it is safer.

He also warned that company vehicles should not be used to convey unknown groups of people without checking with the head office.

Fanafa assured that the management of Benue Links would continue to work to guarantee safe and peaceful travels through Benue Links vehicles, while passengers’ security remains a topmost priority.