The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has urged Nigerians to collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in tackling crime and other societal vices.
Ogbuku disclosed this while speaking at the 5th Strategic Security Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Abeokuta, Ogun State, themed “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing.”
He emphasised the importance of inclusive policing, which involves citizen participation in crime prevention and reporting.
Ogbuku stated that if the police are reported to be failing in their duties, Nigerian citizens should also contribute by reporting crimes and providing useful information that will aid the force in solving cases and tracking criminals.
He advocated for regular mental evaluation of police officers, stressing that psychological testing is essential to ensure emotional intelligence in policing.
He noted that the retreat would review unprofessional activities in the force and implement sustainable policies for a better society, adding that the Nigeria Police Force should conduct periodic vetting and mental health assessments of its officers to identify those who are drifting.
Ogbuku highlighted NDDC’s contributions to strengthening security in the region, including the installation of 60kVA solar inverters at police headquarters in the nine Niger Delta states, with one completed in Imo State and others underway.
He also mentioned the supply of communication gadgets to the Rivers State Police Command, the repair of failed masts and armoured personnel carriers in Rivers and Bayelsa States, and the provision of six 250-horsepower Yamaha outboard engines alongside the rehabilitation of six others to combat crime in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku emphasised that these efforts underscore the strong partnership between the NDDC and the Nigeria Police Force in enhancing security and stability in the Niger Delta.