Osun CP seeks renewed trust, cooperation between police, communities
OSUN STATE, Nigeria — The Osun State Police Command is urging residents of the Ayedaade, Irewole, and Isokan Local Government Areas to build trust and cooperate with law enforcement to enhance community safety and security.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura made this appeal through the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, during a peace and community engagement event organized by Area Commander Ikire, Assistant Commissioner of Police Kalat Shamang.
Zungura emphasized that fostering a collaborative relationship between the police and community members is essential for effective policing. He instructed all Area Commanders across the state to facilitate similar engagements in their respective jurisdictions to better understand and address community concerns.
“We look forward to establishing a harmonious relationship between the police and the people for safer communities,” Zungura stated. He encouraged residents to trust law enforcement while also urging them to actively contribute to maintaining security.
The Commissioner assured the community that no political party or candidate would receive preferential treatment from the Command. He called on stakeholders to rise above political differences, saying, “Election has passed, let us move on. Every complaint received will be investigated in a professional and impartial manner.”
Zungura also warned police officers against becoming involved in political disputes, stating that any officer found engaging in inappropriate behavior would face disciplinary action. He stressed the importance of protecting fundamental human rights and allowing peaceful political activities without intimidation.
Additionally, Zungura called for greater engagement from local stakeholders in community policing, advising residents to reach out to Divisional Police Officers and the Police Community Relations Committee as needed. “Policing is a collective effort,” he remarked.
At the event, ACP Shamang highlighted that the forum allowed stakeholders to discuss the causes of tension between the police and the community and explore solutions. He noted that the meeting revealed a significant mistrust stemming from perceived bias and unprofessional conduct by some officers, exacerbated by local government leadership issues and the recent gubernatorial elections.
“Eighty to ninety percent of the blame has been directed at the police,” Shamang acknowledged. He assured attendees that the Command is determined to foster peace and resolve conflicts actively.
He also announced the appointment of a new Divisional Police Officer in Ikire and warned criminals that law enforcement would take decisive action against armed robbery and other serious crimes. “Tell the people that the new CP is serious. Enough is enough,” he declared.
Shamang characterized Zungura as a decisive leader focused on improving the police-public relationship and said measures are being implemented to achieve this goal.
Oba Moruf Adesoji Fabowale, the Sooko of Itako land, emphasized the need for peace in the communities, expressing optimism that such forums would facilitate positive outcomes.
Another community member, Fasanya Samuel Kolawole, remarked on the Commissioner’s commitment to a new approach and assured the police of residents’ cooperation if promises were kept. Abiodun Oladoyin described the engagement as a positive initiative, affirming, “This is the right action the police are taking today.”
