Police chief urges stronger community trust to fight insecurity
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has emphasized the importance of building trust between law enforcement and communities to address insecurity in the country. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Awka, he called for collaboration among the police, traditional institutions, and other groups. Disu, represented by DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, highlighted the need for mutual trust and active community participation. He also addressed concerns about the establishment of state police, stating that constitutional amendments are required for such a move.
What we know
- Olatunji Disu called for an end to mutual suspicion between the police and citizens, stressing that sustainable security depends on genuine trust.
- The stakeholders’ engagement in Awka aimed to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other groups.
- Disu directed all Deputy Inspectors-General of Police to engage with stakeholders in their zones to find practical solutions to security challenges.
- The police chief identified cult violence, armed robbery, kidnapping, targeted killings, and drug trafficking as major drivers of insecurity.
- He clarified that establishing state police requires constitutional changes by the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly, not just police approval.
