Don’t leave crime-fighting to police alone – Lagos CP tells residents

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Fatai Tijani, has called on residents and other community stakeholders to work closely with security agencies in the fight against crime and the maintenance of peace.

Tijani made the appeal on Thursday at a stakeholders’ security meeting organised by the Area D Police Command in Mushin.

The meeting, which was held at the command’s premises, focused on strengthening cooperation between security agencies and residents in addressing security challenges within the community.

The commissioner said effective policing depended on active participation from members of the communities, stressing that community-based policing required a partnership involving the police, traditional rulers, community leaders, youths and other stakeholders.

“The collective goal is to create a peaceful and secure environment where residents can go about their activities without fear,” he said.

Tijani commended residents, police personnel, other security agencies and stakeholders for their contributions to the relative peace recorded in the area.

He, however, noted that some security challenges persisted, particularly cultism, drug abuse and other criminal activities, which he said required a collective response.

“Do not leave crime-fighting to the police alone. All of us must take part.

“Let us collaborate with the intelligence and security agencies, so that we can reduce crime in our communities,” he said.

The commissioner urged residents to promptly share information about suspicious individuals and activities with security agencies, assuring them that such information would be handled appropriately.

He also highlighted the responsibilities of traditional rulers, community leaders and youths in preserving peace, resolving disputes and preventing criminal activities.

Tijani warned residents against providing protection or accommodation for criminals and urged communities to prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in their areas.

“If we are not criminals, why do we allow criminals to infiltrate our areas? We should not welcome or accommodate criminals in our communities,” he said.

He expressed concern about the proliferation of small arms and ammunition in parts of the area, urging residents to report anyone found with illegal weapons to the appropriate security agencies.

The commissioner further urged residents to maintain peace as the country approaches the 2027 general elections, warning against allowing political differences to undermine harmony within communities.

“Election will come and go, but we will still remain where we are. We have to ensure peace in our communities,” Tijani said.