By Karen James
In a bid to foster security awareness, discourage crime, and promote positive police-community relations, the Nigerian Police Force Zone 13 Ukpo, in collaboration with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Anambra Chapter, has launched a sensitization campaign targeting students. The initiative aims to educate young minds on the dangers of criminal activities and the importance of being security-conscious and police-friendly.
The campaign’s latest outreach took place at Nawfia Community Secondary School, Nawfia, Dunukofia Local Government Area, Anambra State. It featured an enlightening session led by SP Josephine Ihunwo, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of Zone 13.
“Crime Never Pays” – SP Ihunwo
Addressing the students, SP Ihunwo emphasized the grave consequences of engaging in criminal activities, stating that no good ever comes from crime. She encouraged the students to avoid negative peer pressure, bad company, and any behavior that could lead to violence or other social vices.
“Focus on your studies and equip yourselves with quality education. It will shape your lives for the better,” SP Ihunwo urged, reminding the students to prioritize their future and make positive choices.
She also provided practical tips on staying vigilant, urging them to report any suspicious activities to the police or relevant authorities. Emergency contact numbers were shared to ensure swift communication in case of any threats or incidents:
•Zone 13: 07055552215, 07055552217
•Enugu: 09160002487, 09160002486
•Anambra Command: 07039194332
•Headquarters: 08057000001, 08057000002 (WhatsApp only)
•Lagos: 09111111151, 09111991116
“Remember, the police are your friends,” SP Ihunwo reassured. “Speak up when you are being maltreated or coerced into wrongdoing. The police will respond swiftly to protect you.”
Mrs. Ijeoma Ubah, the Anambra State Special Unit Coordinator of PCRC, described the sensitization exercise as a resounding success. She commended the PCRC’s commitment to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community.
“The PCRC has made significant contributions, including supporting police widows, providing facilities for police schools, and ensuring community safety,” Mrs. Ubah said, highlighting recent achievements such as the construction of toilet facilities and water storage tanks for Police Children School CPS Onitsha.
She further urged the students and youths to stay away from crime, especially during the festive season, noting that criminal activities lead to ruin.
Mrs. Amaka Ezeh, Principal of Nawfia Community Secondary School, expressed gratitude to the Zone 13 Police Force for the initiative. She praised the enlightening lecture and urged her students to apply the lessons learned, avoid negative influences, and always adhere to the guidance of their teachers.
The students were equally appreciative, pledging to make good use of the knowledge gained. The session concluded with SP Ihunwo distributing gifts and educational materials to the students as a gesture of her commitment to improving their lives and education.
This collaboration between the Nigerian Police Force Zone 13 and PCRC Anambra Chapter marks a significant step toward promoting security consciousness and cultivating positive relationships with the police. By targeting schools, the initiative aims to shape a generation that values safety, accountability, and the rule of law.
The organizers hope this campaign will serve as a model for other regions and encourage communities to work together with law enforcement to build a safer society.
