Don’t leave crime-fighting to police alone – Lagos CP tells residents

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Fatai Tijani, has urged residents and other community stakeholders to actively collaborate with security agencies in combating crime and preserving peace. At a stakeholders' security meeting organized by the Area D Police Command in Mushin, Tijani emphasized the importance of community-based policing, stressing that active involvement from community members was crucial.

He highlighted that the collective aim was to create a safe and secure environment for residents to carry out their activities without fear.

Tijani acknowledged the contributions of residents, police personnel, other security agencies, and stakeholders in maintaining relative peace within the area. However, he pointed out that certain security challenges, such as cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal activities, still persist, necessitating a united response. Tijani urged residents not to solely rely on the police for crime-fighting efforts, and called for their active participation in collaboration with intelligence and security agencies to reduce crime levels in their communities.

The commissioner emphasized that residents should promptly share information about suspicious individuals and activities with security agencies, assuring them that their input would be handled properly. He also addressed the responsibilities of traditional rulers, community leaders, and youths in maintaining peace, resolving disputes, and preventing criminal activities within their areas.

Tijani cautioned residents against providing shelter or protection to criminals, urging them to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating their communities.

Concerned about the proliferation of small arms and ammunition in certain parts of the area, Tijani urged residents to report anyone found possessing illegal weapons to the appropriate security agencies. He further emphasized the importance of maintaining peace as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, warning against allowing political differences to disrupt harmony within communities.

"Election will come and go, but we will still remain where we are. We have to ensure peace in our communities," Tijani stressed.