From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Gov Bello
Security chiefs meeting in Kogi state have praised the State Government on efforts so far in tackling insecurity in the state with passionate appeal on the need to sustain the tempo.
The security chiefs who maintained that Kogi government has done very well in the handling of the security situation of the state, however, noted that pockets of insecurity were still being observed in some areas of the state.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of one-day- Round Table Advocacy Meeting on Community Policing organized by the Actionaid Nigeria as part of its contribution to stem the rate of insecurity across the state.
The Communique identified farmers-herdmen crisis, armed robbery, and kidnapping as some of the major insecurity issues confronting the state.
The Communique also observed that poor behaviour of children, which is majorly the responsibility of the parents and communities, is yet another serious forces that has triggered the spate of insecurity in Kogi.
It blamed communities and parents to have contributed to the insecurity problem by shielding suspected criminals and failing to obey laws.
The Communique added that insecurity is fueled by poor or lack of education with observation that religious institutions have greater roles to play in reduction of insecurity and radicalism in our communities.
After discussions and deliberations, the participants came out with the recommendations that there is need to build trust between the Police and Community through constant periodic meetings.
They also suggested the need for the Police Command to be proactive in relating with communities and dealing with insecurity.
Participants called for sincerity on the part of the community when engaging with the Police as well as the need for capacity strengthening in relation to working with the Police and respect for the rule of law and human rights.
They further condemned the idea of shielding of criminals by communities and parents and urged the communities to improve on their relationship with the police.
They equally recommended that the Police must be civil and friendly when dealing with community members and a change in attitude when interacting between the two groups.
The Police was finally advised to put in place a system for ensuring confidentiality of information received from the communities as well as enhancement of the Community Policing Unit for effective Community relationship.
