Police, Residents Strengthen Ties for Safer Communities
The Ondo State Police Command took community policing to a new level this week as the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, joined the global celebration of World Customer Service Week with an uncommon outreach to artisans, scavengers, and members of the Hausa/Fulani community in Akure.
At the heart of the event was a simple but powerful message — that policing is most effective when it is rooted in partnership, trust, and mutual respect between the police and the people they serve.
Gathered in the vibrant city of Akure, the participants — mechanics, welders, traders, and recyclers — listened attentively as the Commissioner urged them to remain law-abiding, shun crime, and embrace peaceful coexistence across the state.
CP Lawal emphasized that every citizen, regardless of social or economic status, plays a vital role in ensuring public safety. “No business, craft, or community can thrive without security,” he reminded them. “Working together is far more effective than working alone.”
He commended the contributions of artisans and scavengers to the state’s economy, noting that their work not only creates jobs but also helps sustain livelihoods and community development.
However, he warned that some criminal elements often exploit these trades for illicit activities, such as auto theft, vandalism, and handling of stolen property, stressing the need for vigilance and integrity among genuine practitioners.
The Commissioner called for greater collaboration between residents and the police in curbing such crimes. He described community policing as a shared responsibility — one that depends on open communication, trust, and active citizen involvement.
During the interactive session, representatives of the various groups expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as the first of its kind in recent times. Many of them pledged to support the Police Command in identifying and reporting suspicious individuals or activities.
One of the community leaders, speaking on behalf of the Hausa/Fulani group, thanked CP Lawal for recognizing their contribution to the state’s economic life and for creating an avenue where dialogue replaces tension.
“The Commissioner’s visit has shown that the Police truly care about every resident,” he said. “We are committed to working hand in hand with the Police to maintain peace in our communities.”
In his address, CP Lawal acknowledged the visionary leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, whose commitment to community-based policing continues to inspire police commands across the country.
According to him, the IGP’s policies have strengthened the resolve of the Ondo State Command to build stronger bonds with stakeholders and create safer environments for all.
The event was not just a celebration of customer service — it was a reflection of a new policing philosophy: one that values communication as much as enforcement, and empathy as much as authority.
As the World Customer Service Week draws to a close, CP Lawal reaffirmed his Command’s dedication to protecting lives and property, while fostering partnerships that make communities safer, more united, and more trusting of those in uniform.
In a city where the hum of daily activity never stops, the message from the Commissioner of Police resonated deeply — security is not a one-man duty; it is a shared commitment between the protectors and the protected.
