We’ll continue to uphold statutory responsibilities without prejudice — New Oyo CP, Haruna

The new and 48th Commissioner of Police (CP) in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, has assured the residents that under his watch, the Command will continue to uphold its statutory responsibilities without prejudice to background, orientation, philosophy, religion or association.

The Commissioner, who noted the vital position held by the police in protection of lives and property, expressed his readiness to undertake the challenge of responsibilities attached to effective policing of the state.

The Police boss gave the assurance at a maiden media briefing, held at the command headquarters on Tuesday.

CP Haruna, who noted that no society is completely devoid of crime, promised that Oyo command would continue to work with sister security agencies, credible informants, vigilante groups, Western Nigeria Security Network code-named Amotekun, and the media to reduce criminal activities, such as kidnapping, illegal mining, land grabbing, cult clashes, and robbery, among others to the barest minimum.

He stated that with the continued support of the state residents, he would ensure non-tolerance of the existence of any criminal enterprise.

The CP warned that he would not hesitate to identify, isolate and bring to deserved justice any person or group that attempts to threaten the existing relative tranquility in the state.

CP Haruna stated further that the Command would be consolidating on the already-existing security modalities to further accommodate more actionable tools, in a bid to clamp down on criminal elements through the adoption of an eight-step action plan.

He listed the steps as strict discipline at all Command levels, respect for the rule of law and rights of residents, amplified community policing engagements, and capacity building for police officers through training and retraining.

Others are advanced intelligence and technology-driven policing, increasing layers of supervision for police officers, consolidation on inclusive policing strategy, with emphasis on community engagements, and robust collaborations with sister security agencies and civil liberty organisations.

He expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission (PSC) for finding him worthy of the assignment given. 

“With the divine guidance of the Almighty God and your collaboration, I am confident that Oyo State will experience a robust policing environment that promotes peace and tranquillity,” the CP said.

He also recognised the contributions and professional policing principles adopted by the immediate past CP, AIG Johnson Oluwole Adenola, for leaving a solid structural framework for policing the state, made possible with the support and prompt interventions of the state Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde.

He said: “I am envisioned to leverage upon this robust foundation and ensure that Oyo State continues to be one of the safest and most peaceful states in Nigeria where economic development and growth thrive.”

CP Haruna acknowledged the contributions of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), promising to further cement the existing relationship while soliciting its continued collaboration and support.

He also gave recognition to journalists for the cordial police-media relationship, acknowledging them as veritable instruments and primary image builders and managers in contemporary society.

He disclosed that the Command would operate a firm and robust security architecture that would make the state inhabitable for all criminals and undesirable elements.

The new CP said that the Command would look forward to formidable partnerships and strong collaborations with residents, urging all to always remember. 

“If you see something, say something and the Police will immediately do something,” he assured. 

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