The inauguration of the Eruemukohwarien Community Policing, Security Surveillance, and Patrol in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, marks a significant stride towards bolstering security and fostering collaboration between the community and law enforcement agencies. This initiative emerges as a direct response to escalating security challenges, particularly the rise in crime and drug abuse, plaguing the region. Recognizing security as the cornerstone of development and societal progress, the community leadership spearheaded the formation of this local security outfit, aiming to create a secure environment conducive to economic prosperity and peaceful coexistence.
The underlying principle driving the establishment of this community policing initiative is the shared responsibility for security. While acknowledging the crucial role of law enforcement agencies, the community leadership emphasizes that security is not solely their burden. The Eruemukohwarien Community Policing outfit is designed to complement the efforts of existing security structures, thereby fostering a synergistic approach to crime prevention and maintaining order. This collaborative spirit underscores the understanding that a secure environment requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
The inauguration ceremony served as a platform for key figures to articulate their perspectives on the initiative and its broader implications. Mr. Godwin Anigboro, President General of the community, stressed that the primary objective is to create an environment where businesses can flourish and residents can enjoy tranquility. He emphasized the importance of viewing security forces not as adversaries but as partners in the pursuit of peace and order. This collaborative mindset is essential for building trust and fostering effective communication between the community and law enforcement.
ACP Aliyu Shaba, Area Commander of the Ughelli Area Command, lauded the initiative as a commendable step towards enhancing security within the region. Recognizing the limitations of relying solely on police efforts, he underscored the invaluable role of community support in combating crime effectively. ACP Shaba urged members of the newly formed security outfit to uphold the highest standards of integrity, lawfulness, and dedication in discharging their duties, assuring them of the police’s recognition and respect for their contributions. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the police and the community security outfit, emphasizing that the respect accorded to police officers would be extended to the community patrol members, with commensurate expectations of responsible conduct.
The Area Commander further emphasized the crucial role of vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities. He underscored that while the community patrol plays a vital role, members should refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Instead, they should act as the eyes and ears of the police, relaying information promptly to facilitate swift and appropriate action by law enforcement. This delineation of responsibilities is essential to avoid conflicts of authority and maintain a clear chain of command. ACP Shaba also directed that potential recruits undergo thorough screening by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) before being fully integrated into the patrol, ensuring the integrity and reliability of the community security personnel.
CSP Duru Austine, Divisional Police Officer, Ughelli ‘A’ Division, echoed the sentiments of his superior, expressing the police’s readiness to collaborate with any community-based initiative promoting peace and security. He assured the community of the Division’s commitment to working closely with the Eruemukohwarien Community Policing and Security, Surveillance, and Patrol. This collaborative approach promises to enhance information sharing, improve response times, and strengthen the overall security apparatus within the community. In addressing potential disputes between communities and companies, ACP Shaba advised against disruptive actions targeting federal government facilities, urging instead for grievances to be channeled through established legal processes. This emphasis on peaceful resolution mechanisms aims to prevent escalation of conflicts and maintain social harmony. The inauguration of the community policing initiative marks a significant step towards building a safer and more secure environment for all residents of Ughelli North Local Government Area, driven by the principles of shared responsibility, community engagement, and proactive collaboration with law enforcement.
