The Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Imo State Command, Mr Chima Chukwunyere, has urged police operatives to perform their duties with diligence to avoid victimising unsuspecting citizens.
Chukwunyere made this statement on Thursday during the 2024 End-of-Year Party of the committee, held at the Senior Police Officers (SPO) Mess, Police Headquarters, Owerri.
Highlighting the importance of public trust in policing, he stated that extrajudicial actions, such as torture or execution of suspects, are counterproductive and erode confidence in the police force.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by officers, Chukwunyere shared, “In 2009, I saw a female police officer changing her clothes in the open because she had no accommodation. That experience inspired our decision to construct a befitting transit camp for the command to provide suitable accommodation for officers on transfer.”
He clarified that the PCRC does not interfere in criminal matters or investigations but works to ensure justice and prevent the affluent from exploiting the system to oppress the less privileged.
According to him, “We strive to ensure that no innocent person is persecuted using the police as an instrument. We urge the police to ensure that no innocent citizen suffers unduly for offences they did not commit.”
In response, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, CP Aboki Danjuma, commended the PCRC for fostering a strong partnership with the police to enhance relations with Imo residents.
He acknowledged the PCRC’s contributions, stating, “Apart from commissioning the Transit Camp, the PCRC has undertaken numerous projects, including constructing and renovating buildings, providing seats, and offering valuable information for effective policing.”
CP Danjuma further noted, “It is on record that no PCRC member has approached my office seeking personal favours, which is often the case in other state commands.”
Danjuma urged the PCRC to remain steadfast in its efforts to foster a harmonious relationship between the police and the public, ensuring effective policing and crime control in Imo State.
In his speech, Alhaji Mogaji Olaniyan, National President of the PCRC, represented by the National Secretary, Engr. Chukwuaja David, commended the Imo PCRC for its achievements and impactful contributions.
“Mr. Chukwunyere and his team have done their part, but we need more of this. I urge all concerned to reach out to individuals like Prince Amadi for additional support to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
“I charge us all today to do our best to attract well-meaning Nigerians like Prince Amadi to support the police. At the national level, we are proud of the Imo PCRC and its State Chairman, Chima Chukwunyere, for their doggedness and pragmatic strides in advancing the Imo PCRC,” he said.
He also advised PCRC members to work closely with the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Henry Okoye, describing him as a humble and professionally sound officer.
Additionally, Prince Charles Amadi (CHARVON), Grand Patron of the Imo PCRC, announced the donation of 50 mattresses to equip the camp and offered automatic employment to Precious Chika Ugada, the daughter of a PCRC member who graduated with First Class honours in Computer Science from FUTO.
Highlights of the occasion included the official handover of the transit camp to the Imo Police Command and the presentation of awards of excellence to deserving personalities.
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