The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibarahim Idris, has reiterated the need for Nigerians to support security agencies, as they vehemently pursue their responsibility of tackling all crimes.
He said that the police would achieve more with the right approach, equipment and collaborative efforts of Nigerians.
Mr Idris gave the assurance on Thursday in Minna while inaugurating the Niger State ‘Eminent People’s Forum’ (EPF), as directed to all the 36 Commissioners of Police in the country.
He said that the forum would foster partnership with the Police in crime prevention and control.
It will also help in ensuring that there is peace and security in the various communities, the police boss stressed.
According to him, the forum would help to bridge the gap between the public and the police in Nigeria.
Represented by the Assistant Inspector General AIG, Zone 7, Alikali Usman, who stated that the NPF would be guided by international core values of policing with integrity, and compliance with the principles of democratic policing and rule of law.
He noted that the present AG inherited a daunting task of restoring civil authority to the northeast, cattle rustling in the north-central, kidnapping among others in the south-south and south-east, which are also facing the problems of economic sabotage (militancy) and kidnapping which are, according to him , surmountable.
The Niger State Commissioner of Police, Zubairu Muazu, also said that the inauguration was in compliance with the IG’s directive so as to partner with the eminent people in the communities to ensure security of lives and property in the state.
Mr Muazu disclosed that the partnership would go a long way in enhancing the safety of people and sustaining peace in Nigeria.
He urged every criminals in the state to leave or face arrest and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police has established a Joint Operation Centre at the State Police Headquarters, comprising all uniform security outfits to have a synergy in operations for better results during their operation, hence it will go a long way for smooth operations as resources would be pulled together.
The Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Bello, who was represented by his Special Adviser, General Imam Ibrahim, urged residents of different communities to immediately report strange movements to security agencies in their areas.
At the event attended by eminent people in Niger State which includes traditional rulers, retired security men, community leaders and politicians the need for better welfare packages, adequate funding and insurance cover for the police officers was emphasised.