The Ningi community in Bauchi State, has called for deployment of more police personnel, to ehance security in the area.
The District Head of Ningi, Yusuf Danyaya stated this at a stakeholders’ engagement forum on Thursday in Ningi.
The exercise was organised in collaboration between the Voluntary Aid Initiative, International Alert and the UK Department for International Development.
Danyaya said that police outlets have been understaffed, a trend which negatively impacted on community policing strategy in the area.
“The understaffing of police stations in Ningi has significant implications on the safety and wellbeing of the community, leaving them vulnerable to criminal activities.
“We appeal to the authorities to address this critical shortage to ensure that police stations are adequately staff to protect the community,” he said.
Mr Nasiru Zakari, Chairman, Ningi Local Government Council, said urgent measures were necessary to address manpower shortage of the police.
“The understaffing of police stations in Ningi is a serious security concern that requires immediate attention from the state and federal governments,” he said.
He urged the participants to make positive recommendations towards improving security situation in the area.
Zakari said the forum would strengthen synergy between security agencies and the community as well as enhance security network.
Earlier, Hajiya Zainab Hassan, Programe Officer of the organisation, said the forum would provide a platform for discussions and sharing of ideas on security concerns and expectations.
He said that it would also identify challenges, foster greater understanding and empathy between the police and members of the community.
“The forum seeks to promote cooperation and partnership between the police and the community.
“This is will improve community safety, reduced crimes, forge a strong and positive relationship between law enforcement agencies and the community,” she said.