By Karen James
In a groundbreaking move, Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has championed an all-inclusive policing system in Anambra State, bringing together vigilante groups, the Hunters Association of Nigeria, and other relevant security outfits. The aim is to hear from these groups and leverage their expertise and support in enforcing the law and maintaining public order and safety in the state.
CP Itam restated his policing plan at a gathering held at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Center in Awka. He commended the vigilantes and security outfits for their unwavering commitment, dedication, and selfless service in assisting the police forces in combating crime in the state.
However, the CP also expressed concern over certain abnormalities observed within the vigilante communities. Some of these issues include illegal detention of suspects, mob actions, illegal security levies, and assault on suspects. CP Itam sternly advised the security operatives to not allow themselves to be used against one another, especially within the communities they are expected to protect.
To foster greater cooperation between the police and the recognized security outfits in the state, CP Itam proposed the creation of a State Policing Model. This model would be anchored on the Police Community Policing Committee and would accommodate all security outfits, ensuring the harmonized sharing of intelligence information.
During the interactive session, the security operatives expressed their satisfaction with the initiative and also shared their concerns, which CP Itam promptly addressed. The Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy, Hon Tony Collins Nwabunne, thanked CP Itam for this unprecedented engagement and requested that such gatherings be held more frequently.
The event was attended by the Management Team of the Police Command, State and Zonal Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), representatives from the State Security Department, Hunters Association of Nigeria, National President of Town Union Association in the State, representatives from the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, and members of the Anambra State Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA), among others.
This visionary approach of CP Itam has the potential to strengthen the security landscape in Anambra State by fostering collaboration and harnessing the local expertise and resources available within these various security outfits. With all stakeholders joining forces, Anambra State is set to become even safer for its residents and visitors alike.
