By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Selected security operatives in Benue state have been trained on the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights, VPSHR, to keep them abreast with modern trend in human right observance in the discharge of their duties.

The training was conducted weekend under the auspices of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har, in collaboration with the Special Adviser on Security and Strategic Liaison Lt. Col. Alex Anshingu retd.

Chief Har said the training was conducted to reposition the Benue State Civil Protection Guards Quick Response Squad, QRS, for a new Benue state.

The Adviser stated that “this milestone initiative is also to promote human rights within security operations.”

He emphasized the need for security operatives to adopt the principles to ensure a balanced approach between security and human rights.

Chief Har noted that the training would also lay the foundation for a forthcoming Code of Conduct document for security personnel in Benue State, which would  incorporate the VPSHR guidelines.

According to him, “this document aims to foster ethical conduct, accountability, and transparency within the security sector.”

Leading the training session, the Chief Investigation Officer and acting Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, Benue State Office, Dr. Joseph Wanshe who speoke extensively on the VPSHR framework, said “it is designed to help security personnel integrate respect for human rights into their operations.

“This training also aims to empower our security personnel to perform their duties with a rights-compliant approach, which is essential for building trust and fostering protection within our communities.”

Among the participants was the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Mrs Esther Rimamnde who was represented by Assistant Superintendent Andy Akure.