Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, a retired Commissioner of Police and former Force Public Relations Officer, has condemned the excessive deployment of police personnel for the protection of high-profile individuals, which he argues contributes to the general under-policing of Nigerian communities.
Ojukwu, delivering the keynote address at the annual Feast of Barracuda in Abuja on Thursday, described a troubling scenario where a state governor had 260 police officers assigned to his residence. This revelation came during his lecture on "The Role of Civilian Collaboration in Enhancing Security within the FCT and Its Environs."
Ojukwu highlighted the disparity between the limited police resources available for the general public and the excessive security measures for VIPs. "In Abuja, there are approximately 16,000 police officers, equating to one officer for every 245 residents," Ojukwu stated. "Yet, I found it astonishing that a single governor had 260 officers stationed at his home. This excessive allocation is a misuse of resources that could otherwise be deployed to improve general public safety."
The retired police chief stressed that such imbalances contribute to the general insecurity faced by citizens. He criticized the practice as a misuse of public resources that exacerbates the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians. "While VIPs enjoy heavy security, the average citizen remains vulnerable. This skewed distribution of resources is a significant part of why our communities feel under-policed," he added.
Addressing the broader issue of insecurity, Ojukwu noted the impact of fear and crime on the economy and social stability. "The fear of crime often has a more profound effect than the crime itself, leading to a heightened sense of paranoia and insecurity," he explained. "This, in turn, affects economic productivity and personal well-being. Collaboration between the police and civilians is crucial. When you see something, say something."
Olamide Oni, the Capoon of the Sahara Deck of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), who organized the event, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in tackling security challenges. "The Feast of Barracuda is more than just a symbolic event. It is a platform for discussing and finding solutions to the security issues in the FCT and its surroundings," Oni stated.
Oni stressed that addressing security requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, including civilians, community leaders, the private sector, and government officials. "Security cannot solely be the responsibility of law enforcement agencies. It demands collaborative efforts from all sectors of society to achieve lasting peace and stability."
The event underscored the need for innovative approaches and community engagement to enhance security and ensure a safer environment for all.
| Posted: at | |
TRENDING GISTS 
Police Arrest 228 Suspects In Enugu
Fan Gushes As MC Oluomo’s Daughter Gets Engaged
VIDEO; "Davido Gifted My Girlfriend ₦10 Million For Supporting Me" - Rapper, Odumodublvck
Mayor Of Boston Celebrates Nigerian Singer, Rema’s Role In Championing Afrobeat Worldwide
PHOTOS: Troops Arrest Four Suspected Terrorists, Recover Arms And Ammunition In Taraba