The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has urged youths in the state to join hands with the police command in the fight against crime.
The Police Commissioner made this call on Friday during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to the state police headquarters in Akure, Ondo State.
Afolabi encouraged the student body and other youths in the state to collaborate with the police command by reporting any suspicious activities. He emphasized that community policing can only be effective when trust and communication are mutual.
The Commissioner also approved the appointment of one of the previously detained young activists, identified as Akeju Blessing James, as the Youth and Students Liaison Officer/Ambassador to the Ondo State Police Command.
According to him, the strategic appointment is aimed at strengthening the synergy between the Nigeria Police Force and the student/youth community in Ondo State. He added that it also aims to foster improved communication, coordination, and conflict resolution mechanisms in the state.
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He lauded the NANS JCC leadership for organizing a protest that was not only peaceful but also devoid of violence, vandalism, extortion, or any form of public disturbance. He noted that such maturity and discipline are rare in youth-led movements and praised the association for setting a commendable standard.
However, he highlighted several challenges faced by the command, including a shortage of manpower, lack of technical support equipment such as drones and tracking devices, and the urgent need for more patrol vehicles to enhance surveillance and crime-fighting efforts.
He appealed to both governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to support the command in equipping its operations for greater efficiency.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of NANS JCC Ondo State, Tobiloba Joshua, said the purpose of the visit was to appreciate the CP for his professional, fatherly, and calm disposition during the recent peaceful protest staged by Akoko Youth Leaders and the Ondo Axis of NANS in response to the detention and legal action initiated against Akeju Blessing James and other youth leaders.
Joshua noted that “Despite the charged atmosphere that characterized the protest, CP Wilfred Afolabi remained neutral and tactful in his interventions. He served as a voice of reason and an advocate for peace, ensuring that the constitutional rights of protesters were not violated while also safeguarding public peace and order.”
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