Why we introduced Eminent Peoples Forum —IGP

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9 years ago

THE Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, has explained the concept behind Eminent Peoples Forum (EPF) introduced across police commands in the country.

The explanation was given by Mr Leye Oyebade, Commissioner of Police, Abia State police command, who represented the IGP at the inaugural meeting of the forum, on Tuesday.

According to him, the orthodox concept, which regarded security as the exclusive preserve of the police and security agencies alone, had become obsolete and moribund.

The IGP also said the police high command would soon change the perception of the public about the police as a corrupt and lethargic institution.

“Security is now the concern of all citizens in the country. Traditional rulers, traders, politicians, captains of industry are all stakeholders in the renewed security project,” he said.

The IGP said membership would comprise critical stakeholders such as community and religious leaders, retired senior security officers, traditional rulers, among others.

He said the forum would assist in mediation and social control during security challenges when necessary.

“It is on this note that we call on the citizenry to partner with the police and other security agencies in our quest to secure Abia State and ensure a conducive environment for trade, investment and social activities to prevail,” he said.

The IGP said the police had adopted community policing as one of the veritable tools in crime fighting and prevention.

While addressing officers of the command in Umuahia, Abia State, the IGP, speaking through Oyebade, said no one should be left in doubt as to the direction of the policy thrust of the administration.

“A new vision and mission has been introduced which would ensure that the force starts the process of having a human face.

“The core value of discipline, hard work and ethical conduct have been placed on the front burner. We now have a responsibility to uphold the best practices in the discharge of our professional duties,” he said.