Akwa Ibom CP reaffirms commitment to public safety

Etim Ekpimah

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism, fairness, respect, and responsiveness in its dealings with the public.

Azare made the commitment during the command’s Customer Service Week celebration at its headquarters in Uyo, where he stressed the importance of public trust in effective policing.

The commissioner said public service is inseparable from the Nigeria Police Force’s responsibility to maintain law and order, noting that every interaction between police officers and citizens can directly impact public confidence in the force.

He urged officers and personnel to be courteous, patient, impartial, and prompt in the discharge of their duties. He also urged them to listen attentively, explain their actions clearly, and treat everyone with dignity, regardless of status or background.

Azare addressed security concerns in the state, calling for greater collaboration among the police, government, traditional and community leaders, parents, and other stakeholders.

On cybercrime, he urged members of the public, particularly young people, to use digital platforms responsibly, protect their personal information, and verify information before sharing it. He advised victims of online fraud to preserve relevant evidence and report incidents promptly to the police.

The commissioner warned against mob action and jungle justice, stressing that no allegation justifies violence against a suspect.

He said such actions can lead to loss of life, compromise investigations, and expose perpetrators to criminal prosecution. He therefore urged residents to report suspected crimes and allow the police and courts to handle such matters in accordance with the law.

While acknowledging the importance of cultural activities, Azare cautioned against using cultural practices as a cover for intimidation, assault, extortion, or disruption of public peace.

He stressed that organisers have a responsibility to ensure that their activities remain peaceful and lawful.

Speaking on the role of young people, the commissioner described them as a vital part of Akwa Ibom’s future and urged them to shun violence, cultism, and thuggery.

He called on parents, educators, and community leaders to provide young people with guidance, mentorship, and constructive opportunities.

On critical infrastructure, Azare described the destruction and vandalism of public assets as a threat to society and urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police.

He also appealed to political leaders and their supporters to act responsibly, stressing that political differences must not become an excuse for threats, violence, or the destruction of property.

The commissioner urged all stakeholders to ensure that political activities are conducted peacefully and in strict compliance with the law.

The event was attended by representatives of the Police Community Relations Committee, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Akwa Ibom State chapter), civil society organisations, and the Christian Association of Nigeria (Akwa Ibom State chapter), among others.

Azare reassured the people of Akwa Ibom that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property and enforcing the law impartially.

He thanked members of the public for their continued cooperation, support, and timely provision of information, while urging them to maintain open communication with the police and promptly report emergencies and suspicious activities through the appropriate channels.

The commissioner stated that the command will continue to work with residents and other stakeholders to build a safer, more peaceful, and law-abiding Akwa Ibom State.