From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, Chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC), Solomon Arase and former Adviser to President Umar Musa Yar’Adua Niger Delta Affairs, Godknows Igali, have proffered solutions to the spate of killings and kidnappings bedeviling the country.
They spoke yesterday at a national security conference jointly organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and The New National State Newspaper, in Abuja, with the title: ‘National Security and Development.’
Wike said the media should deepen its reportage and hold those in charge responsible.
The minister stressed that without security, there would be no meaningful economic growth, social harmony, and individual well-being.
Represented by the FCT Permanent Secretary, Samuel Atang, he said: “Furthermore, the press acts as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable for their actions or inactions.
“By shining a spotlight on the activities of our security apparatus, the press compels authorities to take decisive action and implement necessary reforms to safeguard the lives and property of citizens.”
Arase, who spoke on ‘Citizen Engagement in the Fight against Crime and Criminality in Nigeria’, said there must be coordination and communication among security agencies, that is devoid of politicization of the issues.
The former Inspector General of Police, advocated community policing already adopted in Japan and Germany which he said has build trust between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
Represented by Dr. Shamsu Yahaya of PSC, he said: “One of the key lessons learned from the experiences of other countries is the importance of engaging the citizenry in crime prevention efforts.
“Initiatives such as community policing, neighborhood watch programs, and crime reporting apps can empower citizens to take an active role in keeping their communities safe.
“By building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community, these initiatives can help reduce crime rates and improve public safety.
“Additionally, addressing the underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to crime is crucial for long-term success.
“This includes investing in education, job creation, and social support programs that provide individuals with alternatives to a life of crime.
“Strengthening governance and the rule of law, promoting transparency and accountability, and addressing corruption are also essential for creating an environment where crime cannot thrive.
“Finally, it is important to recognize that crime prevention is a shared responsibility that requires the collaboration of all stakeholders. This includes government agencies, law enforcement, community organizations, businesses, and individual citizens.
“By working together, we can create a safer and more secure Nigeria for future generations.”
On its part, Igali said government should address poverty and create jobs for the teeming population.
“To build our country, to build our communities and states, all of us are critical to the security of the country.
“We must continue to remind our leaders that power comes from God. So, our leaders be it religious, political and ethic must remember at all times that to lead the country in a way that the masses will be happy,” he added.
NUJ National President, Chris Iziguzo, said the summit was organised for experts to brainstorm on the raging crimes commitment by men of the underworld, which has left trails of emotional and psychological torture.