The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, has called on Nigerian youths to work closely with security agencies to promote peaceful, credible and violence-free elections ahead of the 2027 general elections. He stressed that stronger collaboration between the police and young people is essential to sustaining peace, security and democratic governance across the country.
Jimoh made the call during the Political Intelligence Summit on Youth-Police Engagement across the IBILE Divisions, organised by the Lagos State Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement in collaboration with the Bureau of the Public Defender. He described youths as critical stakeholders in nation-building and urged them to embrace community policing by reporting security concerns through appropriate channels. The AIG cautioned young Nigerians against the spread of fake news, hate speech and divisive narratives capable of threatening national unity. He encouraged responsible use of social media to educate fellow citizens, promote civic responsibility and discourage election-related violence and other criminal activities.
According to him, sustained engagement between the police and young people has strengthened public confidence in law enforcement across Lagos and Ogun states. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to community-oriented policing and the protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.
Jimoh also assured participants that the police would continue to improve collaboration with stakeholders in the criminal justice system to address delays in criminal trials, particularly those arising from the transfer or retirement of investigating officers. He commended the Lagos State Government for investing in security infrastructure and creating platforms that encourage dialogue between the police and the youth.
The summit also featured goodwill messages from officials of the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Justice, who emphasised the need for mutual trust between citizens and security agencies. They encouraged young people to understand their constitutional rights, engage constructively with law enforcement and contribute actively to building safer and more peaceful communities.
Credit – The Punch
