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AIG Ishola Advocates Community Policing For Stronger Public-Police Relations
Police are servants of the public, called to serve rather than rule or oppress.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 8 Headquarters, AIG Babatundeb Ishola, on Wednesday, stressed the importance of community policing and the emphasized that security is a shared responsibility.
The AIG while speaking at stakeholders meeting at the police Mess in Ilorin, Kwara state on Wednesday, August 22, 2023.
He explained the plans to enhance police training, focusing on attitudinal and behavioral changes for new recruits and reorientation programs for serving officers.
He stated the importance of community policing for successful crime prevention and emphasized the importance of human rights, rule of law, and citizen-focused policing in the training curriculum.
Addressing issues of incivility among police officers towards the public, AIG Ishola stated that the police are servants of the public, called to serve rather than rule or oppress. He stressed the need for a strong rapport between the police and the communities they serve and the importance of community policing for successful crime prevention.
He also referenced the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Acting IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D., NPM, and emphasized the need to adhere to the blueprint set forth.
Mr Ishola shared the Acting IGP’s vision of standardizing the policing profession, embracing transparency, accountability, and professionalism while prioritizing the welfare of officers and the communities they serve.
Explaining the evolving landscape of crime, AIG Ishola stressed the importance of embracing innovation and technology in the fight against criminal activities. He noted that criminals have become more sophisticated, requiring law enforcement to leverage cutting-edge tools, data analytics, and intelligence networks to stay ahead.
Furthermore, he said plans to enhance police training, focusing on attitudinal and behavioral changes for new recruits and reorientation programs for serving officers.
While he noted the importance of human rights, rule of law, and citizen-focused policing in the training curriculum.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by police officers on the frontlines and pledged improved welfare and support for officers.
Mr Ishola explain plans for the resuscitation of the Police Officer Support Unit (POSU) of the Police Medical Services, providing counseling and support to officers facing daily challenges.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police also highlighted the upcoming “Saver School Programme,” designed to enhance the safety of schools across the country, particularly in light of recent attacks on educational institutions.
However, he called for unity and dedication in realizing the vision of the Acting Inspector-General of Police and urged officers to take care of their physical and mental well-being.
Meanwhile, he reminded officers of the importance of their role in safeguarding the nation and encouraged them to stay security-conscious at all times.