National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Olakunle Oyedunmola |
Kwara state commissioner of police (CP) Victor Olaiya, psc(+), and other stakeholders in the state held a high-level security meeting on October 11, 2024, in a bid to strengthen security in Kwara State.
The meeting, which took place at the Police Officers Mess in GRA, Ilorin, brought together key stakeholders, including the 16 local government chairmen, traditional rulers, leaders of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and local hunters, and the Senior Special Assistant on Security to the Governor of Kwara State.
CP Victor Olaiya, in his address, highlighted the recurring criminal activities in parts of the state and stressed the need for stronger cooperation between local security outfits. He called on various groups, such as the Vigilante Group, local hunters, and herder associations like Meyetti Allah and Gaa Allah, to work together to safeguard communities.
The commissioner also urged security operatives to maintain integrity, cautioning them against any form of collaboration with kidnappers or criminals. He emphasized that those involved in security should remain vigilant and not compromise the safety of the people they are sworn to protect.
He further called on the local government chairmen to take responsibility for strengthening security in their areas by ensuring thorough background checks before recruiting new members into local security groups. CP Olaiya assured them that the Police Command would provide specialized training for recruits to enhance their effectiveness in securing their communities.
During the meeting, representatives from the 16 local government areas shared their concerns and challenges. CP Olaiya responded to their queries, promising that the state police would review and address these issues promptly.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating insecurity across Kwara State. He highlighted ongoing security initiatives and announced that the government had approved a standardized uniform for all security personnel operating under various local groups. This move aims to create a unified front in the fight against criminal activities in the state.
The meeting marked a significant step toward enhancing collaboration between the police and traditional security groups, as Kwara State intensifies efforts to combat kidnapping and other forms of crime.
