The new Deputy Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 9 Headquarters, Umuahia, Polycarp Nwonyi, has called for greater collaboration between traditional rulers and their staff to achieve effective security of lives and property in all Ebonyi communities.
Nwonyi made the call on Thursday during his one-day official working visit to Abakaliki.
The AIG said traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in the collective effort to maintain peace, social cohesion and community stability.
“The traditional institution remains an important bridge between the government, security agencies and the people.
“Our communities possess knowledge, relationships and early warning mechanisms that cannot be replaced by any formal security structure.
“The Nigeria Police Force therefore recognizes traditional rulers as essential partners in the collective responsibility of protecting lives and property.
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“As I begin my tour of duty, my commitment is to strengthen the relationship between the police and traditional institutions within the area. Security cannot be achieved by the police alone,” the AIG stated.
He urged traditional rulers and community leaders to encourage residents to provide timely, accurate and actionable information to the police.
“We are prepared to work closely with the traditional institution in developing practical and sustainable approaches to community security, peaceful coexistence, crime prevention and development,” he said.
The Ebonyi Police Commissioner, Mrs. Hope Okafor, commended the AIG visit, stressing that the command had been working round the clock to protect people and the environment.
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