By Dada Ahmed, Lokoja.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 8, Lokoja, Abubakar Zubairu, has reiterated the call for greater community involvement in security efforts, emphasizing that manpower shortages and resource constraints make an inclusive policing approach imperative.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Okene, Kogi State, AIG Zubairu, accompanied by the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, Miller Dantawaye, stressed that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fostering community-driven security solutions.
He commended CP Dantawaye for his proactive leadership, stating, “Security is everybody’s business. Together, we can ensure stability and peace,”according to the Police Public Relations Officer PPRO for the Command,SP.William Ovie Aya released to The Reporters in Lokoja on Sunday
In his remarks, CP Dantawaye reaffirmed the command’s dedication to implementing the community policing initiative as a strategic approach to effective law enforcement.
He underscored the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions, local communities, and other security stakeholders in tackling crimes, particularly kidnapping and other security threats in the state.
CP Dantawaye lauded the commitment of various security formations, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante groups, hunters, and even members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), in supporting security efforts.
The police commissioner urged community members to actively participate in intelligence gathering, stating that policing cannot be left to uniformed personnel alone.
“We need every citizen to be our eyes and ears to ensure a safe society,” he said.
However, he cautioned officers on the need to uphold discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
CP Dantawaye also disclosed that police officers in the state are undergoing continuous training to enhance their operational capacity and equip them with the necessary skills for effective investigations.
