By Akpokona Omafuaire, UGHELLI

OGBONA, Edo State – The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has emphasized that ending the pervasive insecurity in the country requires sustained collaboration with stakeholders and the use of advanced technological tools.

Egbetokun made the statement during the inauguration and handover ceremony of the fully-equipped ultra-modern Ogbona Divisional Police Headquarters and a state-of-the-art ICT security command and control center in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State. The IGP was represented by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5 Benin, AIG Arungwa Nwaziue Udo.

The project was built and equipped by the Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF), with support from their patron, Mr. Peter Omoh Dunia, Executive Director of Inter-Atlas Synergy Limited. The community also presented a police patrol vehicle and four motorcycles to the Nigeria Police.

In his remarks, the IGP stressed the importance of high-tech policing in the modern world, which plays a crucial role in tracking and monitoring individuals with criminal intentions. He also highlighted the need for community collaboration in ensuring peaceful coexistence and security.

“We are living in a modern world, and high-tech policing is inevitable. The public’s sustained support is essential, as policing is everybody’s business,” Egbetokun said. “Community efforts in this regard will not go in vain.”

Mr. Peter Omoh Dunia, the project’s patron, called on the Nigerian Police to embrace Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to enhance their security operations and meet modern community policing challenges. He also stressed the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in tackling insecurity at the local level.

“Security is the bedrock of development,” Dunia stated. “Without peace, no society can thrive, businesses cannot flourish, and families cannot prosper. This new police station is a symbol of hope, unity, and progress, equipped with modern facilities to enhance the police force’s effectiveness in safeguarding lives and property.”

The National President of Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF), Mr. Paulinus Eleta, noted that the project would help achieve a more secure environment, particularly in Edo North, which has faced security threats such as kidnapping.

Chief Dan Orbih, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South South region, who presided over the event, called for stronger collaboration between society and the Nigeria Police to build security and peace, which he believes will lead to positive change in the country.