By Idibhar Julius, Yenagoa
Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Zone 16 headquarters, Johnson Oluwole Adenola, has emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the media in the fight against crime.
AIG Adenola who spoke when he received the leadership of the United Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Bayelsa State Council at the Zonal headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State outlined his vision for Zone 16, focusing on making the zone a better place with more professional, compliant, and friendly policing.
He stressed the undeniable link between journalism and police work, noting that the police rely on the media for projecting their activities, feedback, and sometimes gathering information on crimes.
The AIG highlighted the focus on inclusive policing, involving various sectors of society including the media, which he described as a powerful sector and extended an invitation for continued collaboration and sought the journalists’ support in police activities.
Adenola encouraged journalists to share information on issues of interest and assured them of police responsiveness, adding that the command has stepped-up activities of the X-Squad, an anti-corruption body monitoring police conduct, aiming to ensure officers do not contribute to citizens’ problems.
AIG Adenola who requested journalists to inform police about any misconduct they witness, expressed his desire to work collaboratively with journalists to make Bayelsa State safer while also advocating for a cordial relationship to address issues and enhance peace and security in the zone and the country.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the United Correspondents Chapel (UCC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State Council, Mr. Ekuankumo Amgbare, expressed delight at the warm reception accorded the journalists, noting that the AIG’s willingness to grant the visit underscored the cordial working relationship between the police command and journalists.
According to Amgbare, the visit aimed to introduce the new UCC executive and explore partnership ways for societal betterment, highlighting journalists’ commitment to professionalism and patriotism in informing, educating, and enlightening the public.
The UCC chairman emphasized that security is a collective responsibility, stressing the visit’s objective of collaborating with the police in fighting crime for a crime-free society essential for progress and development.
Amgbare congratulated AIG Adenola on his posting to Zone 16, praising his career marked by professionalism, integrity, and excellence.
He commended the Inspector-General of Police for the appointment and lauded the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Gunn Emonena, for fostering media relations.
Amgbare reaffirmed UCC’s commitment to professionalism, fairness, and balance in reportage, aiming to promote peace and development through their media platforms.
