Posted by Samuel on Sat 20th Jul, 2024 - tori.ng
Ojukwu said this while delivering the keynote lecture at the annual Feast of Barracuda in Abuja organised by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) Sahara Deck, on Thursday.
Dr Emmanuel Ojukwu, a retired Commissioner of Police and former Force Public Relations Officer, has revealed that he had an issue with a certain state governor who had 260 policemen deployed to his residence, saying this was one of the reasons Nigerians are generally under-policed.
Ojukwu said this while delivering the keynote lecture at the annual Feast of Barracuda in Abuja organised by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) Sahara Deck, on Thursday.
The retired CP spoke on the theme, "The Role of Civilian Collaboration in enhancing security within the FCT and its environs."
He said, "There are about 16,000 police men in the FCT. This is one policeman to 245 residents in Abuja. Among this ratio, how many of such policemen are attached to VIPs? Because I had an issue with a Governor, he thought I was being personal. I told him it wasn't my fault, you are the person I saw and I have to attack you. You are a governor, and I am telling you he has 260 policemen in the house. Is it not madness?
"What are you doing with 260 policemen in your house? Just to show power, that you are in charge. You appropriate the commonwealth to yourself. So they (the policemen) carry handbags, open gates and others and the people outside are suffering. The ratio is actually low. So the policeman cannot do it alone because it's one policeman to 245.
"Okay now, insecurity. There is fear of crime in Abuja. Not only because of 'one chance' but the fear that these bad boys, these elements are everywhere. The fear of crime is worse than crime itself. And once there is fear there is sting mentality. You will become suspicious and watch your back unnecessarily and in the process you may make a mistake.
"There is threat to our economy and there is threat to GDP and GDH (Gross Domestic Problem and Gross Domestic Happiness). Because a hungry man is an angry man. It doesn't stop there, an angry man is a semi-mad man. So there is need for collaboration between the police and the people, when you see something, say something."
Speaking earlier, the Sahara Deck Capoon, Olamide Oni, said the programme was to collaborate in developing innovative solutions to insecurity in the FCT and environs.
He said, "As we gather here today, we are united by a common purpose: to address, discuss and proffer workable solutions to the security situation within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders.
"The Feast of Barracuda, as many of you know, is more than just a symbolic event. It is a platform that allows us to come together, share insights, and develop strategies that address pressing issues in our country. The decision to focus on "The Role of Civilian Collaboration in Enhancing Security Within the FCT & its Environs" for this year's event underscores our commitment to fostering a safer and more secure environment for all.
"In recent years, the security situation within the FCT has presented significant challenges, affecting our daily lives and the overall well-being of our communities. As we navigate these complexities, it is essential to recognize that security is not the sole responsibility of law enforcement agencies. Instead, it requires the active participation and collaboration of civilians, community leaders, private sector stakeholders, and government officials.
"The Feast of Barracuda serves as an ideal occasion to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, each bringing their own perspectives and expertise to the table. Through open dialogue and constructive engagement, we can forge a path forward that not only addresses immediate security concerns but also lays the groundwork for sustained peace and stability in the long term."