By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in charge of the Kogi State Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, has called for stronger collaboration between the police and residents to effectively combat criminal activities across the state.
CP Kankarofi made the appeal on Wednesday while addressing journalists at the command headquarters in Lokoja shortly after assuming duty as the state’s new police chief.
He emphasized the need for community participation in policing, in line with the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) policy on community policing, which prioritizes the security needs and expectations of the people.
Expressing appreciation to the IGP for his appointment, CP Kankarofi pledged to uphold the protection of lives and property in Kogi State and strengthen public confidence in the police force.
The Commissioner called on traditional rulers, community leaders, stakeholders, and sister security agencies to work in synergy with the police to tackle banditry and other forms of crime. He appealed to residents to provide credible information that could help in apprehending criminals, assuring that the police would protect the identity of informants.
He also warned those involved in criminal activities to desist or face the full weight of the law, stressing that no one, regardless of status or position, would be spared if found guilty.
CP Kankarofi disclosed that he has received assurances of cooperation from the state governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, to support the command in its efforts to maintain peace and security.
He further assured that the police would sustain regular patrols along highways and within communities, especially as the Christmas season approaches, to ensure the safety of travelers and residents alike.
