DIG ONWUEMELIE RALLIES ABIA STAKEHOLDERS FOR COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SECURITY.
DIG ONWUEMELIE RALLIES Abia STAKEHOLDERS FOR COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SECURITY.
DIG ONWUEMELIE RALLIES Abia STAKEHOLDERS FOR COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SECURITY.
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-East Zone, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, has called for stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies to tackle crime and enhance public safety in Abia State.
The DIG made the call on Monday during a strategic stakeholders’ engagement held in Abia State as part of efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to deepen community partnership and strengthen security cooperation across the zone.
The meeting, convened in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, security stakeholders and representatives of various sectors to discuss practical measures for addressing security challenges confronting the state.
Onwuemelie said the initiative was designed to provide a platform for listening to community concerns, fostering collaboration, preventing crime and building public trust in policing.
He identified major security concerns in the state to include youth violence in Aba, armed robbery, domestic violence and cult-related activities, which he described as manifestations of organised youth gang violence.
The DIG stressed the need for effective early-warning systems and increased community participation in crime prevention, noting that security agencies alone cannot win the fight against crime without active support from residents.
He urged stakeholders to assist the Police through timely information sharing, peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms, youth mentorship programmes and lawful collaboration with recognised vigilante groups.
According to him, security remains a collective responsibility that requires the commitment of all segments of society.
Onwuemelie further reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to improved intelligence gathering, prompt response to security threats, professionalism and sustained community engagement.
He expressed confidence that lasting peace and security could be achieved in Abia State through continuous partnership, mutual trust and collective vigilance among citizens and security agencies.
The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the Police hierarchy to strengthen community policing and enhance public participation in safeguarding lives and property across the South-East region.