The newly appointed Kwara Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, has declared his determination to tackle activities of kidnappers and terrorists in the state.
The CP, while briefing newsmen at his maiden conference in Ilorin on Thursday, said the state command would take the fight to the criminals’ hideouts.
He, however, said that breakthroughs against criminals had been recorded in communities such as Koro, Oke Ode, Isapa and Obo Aiyegunle, located near the neighbouring Ekiti.
Ojo noted that officers of the command, with the complementary efforts of members of the local vigilance teams in the state, would embark on the task.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the new CP had served as the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations in the Kwara State Police Command.
He had also served three Commissioners of Police before he was promoted to assume this office.
He stated his dedication to strengthening the security architecture of Kwara and ensuring that all residents live and work in an atmosphere of peace and safety.
“Under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, we will continue to uphold the principles of community policing, which have proven to be highly effective in maintaining peace and security.
“Our approach will involve working closely with vigilante groups, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and all well-meaning individuals to ensure that Kwara remains free from criminality,” he said.
Ojo, however, emphasised that discipline and professionalism would be the hallmark of the state police command under his leadership.
“Any officer found guilty of misconduct will face the full weight of the law, as I have zero tolerance for indiscipline and unprofessional conduct, like extortion and human rights violations,” he said.
According to him, society thrives when there is trust between its institutions and its citizens.
“I will work assiduously to gain the trust of the good people of Kwara.
“As I assume this responsibility, I call on all stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the press, and other law enforcement agencies to collaborate with us in this mission.
“Together, we can build a safer Kwara, where every citizen can sleep with their two eyes closed, knowing that they are protected by the police and other security agencies,” the CP said