The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive investigation into accusations of police brutality and extortion directed at officers operating around the State Polytechnic, Ikot-Osura, situated in Ikot-Ekpene Local Government Area. This action follows a demonstration by the students of the institution, who voiced their concerns about escalating insecurity and harassment by security personnel, particularly police officers. The students’ protest, led by their Student Union President, Geoffrey George, vividly illustrated their grievances through chants and placards denouncing the alleged misconduct. Their primary demands centered on the cessation of police brutality and extortion, appealing for protection and an end to abuse.
The students’ protest brought their anxieties regarding their safety and well-being to the forefront, prompting a direct response from the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare. Recognizing the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with the student community, CP Azare convened a meeting with the student union leadership. This meeting served as a platform for open dialogue, allowing the students to express their concerns directly to the highest-ranking police official in the state. The commissioner’s proactive engagement signaled a commitment to addressing the issues raised by the students and investigating the claims thoroughly.
During the meeting, CP Azare unequivocally condemned any acts of police brutality and extortion, reassuring the students of the command’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights. He emphasized that the police force’s primary role is to protect citizens, including students, and any officer found to be violating this principle would face appropriate disciplinary measures. This assurance underscored the commissioner’s determination to ensure accountability within the police force and to foster trust between the police and the community they serve. The commissioner’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the students signifies a recognition of the importance of transparency and communication in addressing public concerns regarding police conduct.
The commissioner’s commitment to investigating the allegations signifies a crucial step towards addressing the students’ grievances and fostering a better relationship between the police and the academic community. By acknowledging the students’ concerns and promising a full-scale investigation, CP Azare demonstrated a responsiveness that is essential for building trust and ensuring accountability. This approach recognizes that effective policing relies on the cooperation and support of the community, and addressing allegations of misconduct promptly and transparently is crucial for maintaining that relationship.
Beyond addressing the specific allegations, CP Azare also stressed the broader importance of collaboration between students and security agencies. He highlighted the need for a united front against crime and emphasized that proactive measures were being implemented to enhance safety within the polytechnic community. This proactive approach aims to not only address the immediate concerns but also to establish a more secure environment for the students in the long term. By working together, students and law enforcement can create a safer and more conducive environment for learning and community development.
In his concluding remarks, CP Azare reiterated the Akwa Ibom Police Command’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of policing under his leadership. He assured the students and the wider community that the protection of lives and property remains the paramount objective of the police force. This commitment to upholding professional standards and ensuring public safety forms the foundation of a successful and trustworthy police force. By addressing the students’ concerns directly, promising a thorough investigation, and emphasizing the importance of collaboration, CP Azare aimed to foster a more positive and productive relationship between the police and the student community, paving the way for a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
