The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, AIG Johnson Oluwole Adenola, has stressed the importance of a strong police-media partnership to enhance effective policing.
He made the call during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the United Correspondents Chapel (UCC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State Council, on Thursday.
Adenola said the Police needed the media in the fight against crime and commended the UCC delegation for their support. He outlined the Inspector General of Police’s inclusive policing strategy, which places media collaboration at its core.
“The link between journalists and police is vital for effective law enforcement,” he said, urging reporters to engage directly with departmental heads beyond the Police Public Relations Officer. He also highlighted Zone 16’s reforms, including the X Squad’s role in monitoring officers’ conduct to ensure professionalism and accountability.
The AIG further appealed to journalists to verify facts before publishing, stressing that accurate reporting would strengthen policing and public safety.
In his remarks, UCC Chairman Amgbare Ekaunkumo expressed appreciation for the warm reception. He said the visit was to introduce the new UCC executive and deepen partnership for societal progress. He commended Adenola’s professionalism and integrity, while also acknowledging Zonal PPRO SP Gunn Emonena for fostering a collaborative media relationship.
Amgbare reaffirmed UCC’s commitment to accurate reporting, noting that security is a shared responsibility between journalists and law enforcement.
The visit ended with the presentation of a plaque to the UCC Chairman by AIG Adenola.
