The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of the South-West, Mustapha Fayoade, has called for stronger collaboration between the police, communities and other stakeholders to improve security and reduce crime.
The DIG spoke during an official working visit to Ogun State and meeting with stakeholders’ held at the Police Command headquarters at Eleweran, Abeokuta on Wednesday.
Fayoade said that Nigerians appreciated police officers who perform their duties professionally and urged continued public support for the Nigeria Police Force.
He said that security was a shared responsibility for a safe environment essential for businesses to thrive and attract investors.
According to him, improved security will encourage investment, create employment opportunities for youths and reduce criminal activities across communities.
Fayoade said that engaging more young people in productive ventures would significantly reduce crime, noting that unemployed youths were more vulnerable to criminal influences.
He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to partner with the police, assuring them of the command’s commitment, sincerity and professionalism.
Fayoade urged residents to report suspicious activities promptly, saying timely information would help security agencies prevent crime and protect lives and property.
The DIG expressed concern over the activities of cult groups in some communities, urging residents not to shield offenders because of family or personal relationships.
Fayoade recounted that firm action against cultists during one of his previous postings forced many criminal elements to flee affected communities.
He urged parents and guardians to play active roles in raising responsible children, saying many young offenders came from broken or poorly supervised homes.
According to him, the decline in family values and parental supervision has contributed significantly to rising crime and insecurity.
He warned parents against celebrating unexplained wealth acquired by their children, saying such attitudes encouraged criminal behavior.
He urged families to instill honesty, discipline and good moral values in children to ensure they become responsible citizens and contribute positively to national development.
The DIG said rebuilding family values and strengthening community support would help reduce crime and promote lasting peace across the country.
In his contribution, Bishop Emmanuel Adekunle, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ogun, enjoined the police to continue to tackle insecurity in the country
“As a religious organization, we have suspended vigil across the South-West as part of security measures,” he said.
Also, Hon. Adegoke Adeyanju, member, Ogun State House of Assembly, said that the state Assembly had continued to give support to the police.
Adeyanju, however, stated that civil matters should be allowed to be dealt with in courts, condemning the practice of police officers getting involved in civil disputes.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other stakeholders at the event included traditional rulers, Community Development Association (CDA), Civil Society Organizations and Nigeria Union of Journalists.(NAN)
