The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of the South-East Geopolitical Zone, Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, on Tuesday led a strategic security stakeholders’ engagement in Anambra State as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, government officials and community leaders to enhance public safety.
The meeting, held in Awka, was organised in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to provide a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on prevailing security challenges, identify emerging threats and evolve practical solutions through intelligence sharing and coordinated security responses.
Addressing participants, DIG Onwuemelie stressed that effective policing cannot succeed without public support, urging residents and community leaders to sustain their partnership with security agencies by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing crime.
He noted that the stakeholders’ engagement, being replicated across the country’s geopolitical zones, reflects the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to community-based policing and inclusive security management.
As part of his operational visit to the state, the DIG paid a courtesy call on the traditional ruler of Awka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Gibson Nwosu (Eze Uzu II of Awka), describing traditional institutions as critical partners in grassroots intelligence gathering, conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
The monarch commended the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and security across Anambra State, assuring the police hierarchy of the continued support and cooperation of the traditional institution in promoting a safer environment for residents.
The engagement attracted heads of security agencies, members of vigilante groups, the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, members of the Anambra State Traditional Council, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, transport unions, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), civil society organisations and representatives of the Northern community.
The Anambra State Police Command said the engagement reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to deepening partnerships with critical stakeholders in its sustained efforts to guarantee the safety of lives and property, while fostering lasting peace and public confidence across the South-East.
