Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has emphasized that effective policing is a collective responsibility. Speaking at the Imo State Police Command and Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC)–Ohaji Community Security Stakeholders Summit, Uzodimma noted that government support and community involvement are crucial in fighting crimes and criminality. The event took place in the Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.
Uzodimma, represented by Chief Principal Security Officer Shaba Adamu Gboyako, stressed that communities must be involved in policing for it to be effective. He assured that the government would continue to provide adequate support in the fight against crimes. Uzodimma also cautioned that police must treat information from community stakeholders with confidence and not become tools for overzealous individuals.
The state Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, represented by Mr. Ota Kelechi, urged community stakeholders to see themselves as co-stakeholders in fighting crimes. Bosso emphasized that security is everyone's business and encouraged stakeholders to support the police in discharging their duties. This call for collaboration aims to foster a safer community.
The Divisional Police Officer, Ohaji police division, Omadachi Lawrence, highlighted the importance of community-police collaboration. Lawrence stated that police cannot do it alone without community members and advocated for peaceful coexistence. He also emphasized the critical role of PCRC in providing constructive engagement and intelligence gathering in the fight against crime.
Lawrence urged stakeholders, including traditional rulers, youth leaders, and landlords, to discourage conduct that may jeopardize community peace. He called on them to guide and warn their children and wards to stay away from crimes and criminality. This initiative aims to promote a culture of peace and responsibility within the community.
The stakeholders summit in Ohaji-Egbema brought together various community leaders and stakeholders to discuss security issues. The event provided a platform for sharing ideas and strategies to enhance community-police collaboration. Such gatherings are essential in building trust and fostering cooperation between law enforcement and the community.
The Imo State government's efforts to engage with community stakeholders and promote collective responsibility in policing reflect a broader strategy to enhance security in the state. By working together, the government, police, and community members can create a safer environment for residents. This collaborative approach is crucial in addressing the complex challenges of crime and insecurity.
Key points
- Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma emphasizes that effective policing requires community involvement.
- The government will continue to provide support in fighting crimes and criminality.
- Community stakeholders are urged to see themselves as co-stakeholders in fighting crimes and support the police.
