LAGOS CP CALLS FOR STRONGER COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN FIGHT AGAINST CRIME

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, has urged residents and other stakeholders to strengthen their cooperation with security agencies to prevent crime and sustain peace across their communities. Tijani made the call during a stakeholders’ security meeting organised by the Area E Police Command in Festac, Lagos, where security concerns affecting residents were discussed.

The commissioner described security as a collective responsibility and stressed that effective community policing could not succeed without the active participation of residents. He urged people to know those living within their communities and promptly report suspicious persons and activities to the police, noting that timely information would allow officers to take preventive action before criminal incidents occur.

Tijani expressed concern over the involvement of youths in crime, cultism, hooliganism and other forms of criminality. He called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to play greater roles in guiding young people away from activities capable of threatening peace. He also appealed to youths to reject crime and contribute positively to the development of their communities.

The police commissioner further advised residents against jungle justice and urged them to resolve disputes through lawful channels. He said the command would continue engaging communities to identify security challenges and develop practical solutions, while assuring residents of the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He also called for cooperation among stakeholders to ensure peaceful political activities and prevent violence before, during and after elections.

Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, Prince Olanrewaju Sanusi, said security remained a priority of his administration because development could not thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity. He urged traditional rulers, Community Development Associations and Committees, religious leaders, landlords, youth groups, market leaders, transport unions and other residents to maintain communication with security agencies, share useful intelligence and promptly report threats. Sanusi also called for greater attention to youth unemployment, cultism and drug abuse while urging residents to reject mob action and resolve disputes peacefully.