IG Disu: Ending Mistrust Crucial for National Security

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has emphasized the critical need for enhanced cooperation among law enforcement, local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to effectively tackle the nation's security challenges. Speaking on Tuesday at a strategic security engagement held in Awka, Anambra State, the IGP made a heartfelt appeal for an end to the deep-seated distrust between the police and citizens, asserting that lasting security can only be achieved through genuine mutual confidence.

Represented by Deputy Inspector-General of Police (South-East), DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, during the event, Disu stated that the gathering was designed to strengthen collaborative efforts among key stakeholders, thereby fostering sustainable peace, security, and public safety. He underscored that successful crime prevention and resolution are directly dependent on the trust and confidence shared between police officers and the communities they serve.

According to DIG Onwuemelie, the IGP has instructed all six Deputy Inspectors-General of Police nationwide to engage with stakeholders in their respective zones. The aim is to identify practical solutions to the prevailing security threats. Onwuemelie further elaborated that these zonal engagements provide a platform for participants to discuss current security issues, pinpoint emerging problems, and formulate actionable strategies to improve intelligence sharing, community involvement, and coordinated security responses.

"This stakeholders’ engagement aims to deepen collaboration between the police, communities, and relevant bodies in Anambra State to effectively combat crime and criminality," Onwuemelie stated. He added, "This exercise is aimed at strengthening collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, government representatives, community leaders, and other critical stakeholders for sustainable peace, security, and public safety."

The DIG implored all stakeholders to work closely with security agencies and legally recognized vigilante groups to bolster efforts against insecurity. He reiterated, "Security is a collective responsibility. No individual or agency can tackle insecurity alone. The police and other security agencies require the support and cooperation of traditional institutions, community leaders, and residents to reduce crime in society."

Onwuemelie expressed concern over the "culture of silence" prevalent in many communities, which often allows criminals to operate without challenge. He urged residents to provide timely intelligence to security agencies before situations escalate. The police chief highlighted cult-related violence, armed robbery, kidnapping, targeted killings, and drug trafficking as significant contributors to the nation's insecurity. He stressed that communities united against criminal activities would make it exceedingly difficult for gangs to flourish.

He further noted, "Clashes among criminal gangs have increasingly resulted in deaths and injuries, making youth engagement and community participation critical in addressing the problem. The people need to trust the police, and the police also need to trust the people. It is only when there is mutual trust between the police and communities that information can flow freely. We need genuine partnership."

Onwuemelie also emphasized the importance of guiding young people and establishing structures that offer opportunities and hope. He encouraged continued collaboration with lawful vigilante groups. "We will deepen our presence at the grassroots level. We will continue to work with the Department of State Services and other security agencies to combat crime in the state. We will also strengthen community engagement through traditional rulers and community leaders," he assured.

Addressing concerns about the establishment of state police, the IGP dismissed claims that the Nigeria Police Force was intentionally hindering the process. He clarified that the implementation of state police necessitates constitutional amendments by both the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. "The issue of state police is tied to constitutional provisions. We must amend the Constitution and relevant laws before state police can become a reality. This is a rigorous process that falls within the responsibilities of members of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly," he explained.

Speaking on behalf of the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Ibrahim Ezekiel, highlighted security as the bedrock of economic progress and social development. He affirmed that every citizen plays a role in combating insecurity and encouraged residents to collaborate closely with security agencies to foster a safer environment. "Security is a collective responsibility, although there are state actors specifically charged with maintaining security," he stated.

During his visit, DIG Onwuemelie paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Awka Kingdom, Igwe Gibson Nwosu. This visit acknowledged the crucial role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and gathering grassroots intelligence. The monarch commended the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their dedication to maintaining security across the state, pledging the unwavering support of the traditional institution.

The engagement meeting saw attendance from various key figures, including heads of security agencies, vigilante groups, members of the Anambra State Traditional Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, transport unions, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, civil society organizations, and representatives from the Northern community residing in the state.