Crime Control: “Assist Police With Useful Informations,” Olubadan Charges Residents
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — THE Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called on eligible indigenes of Oyo State to take advantage of the ongoing police constable recruitment exercise and enlist in the Nigeria Police Force to help combat insecurity.
Oba Ladoja, who also serves as Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, made the call on Wednesday in Ibadan while receiving a delegation led by DIG Tunde Lakanu (retd), Chairman of All Police Matters and South-West representative on the Police Service Commission.
The monarch emphasized the critical role of law enforcement agents in maintaining societal order, noting that their responsibilities extend beyond apprehending offenders to ensuring peace and stability.
According to him, “The duties of the police are too important for any society to overlook. They are not only responsible for arresting offenders but also for maintaining law and order.”
Oba Ladoja disclosed that although his direct jurisdiction covers 11 local government areas, he would liaise with members of the Council of Obas and Chiefs across the state to mobilize support for the recruitment exercise.
He further pledged the cooperation of the Olubadan Advisory Council, line chiefs, Baales, Mogajis, and Iyalodes in sensitizing residents at the grassroots level.
The monarch also highlighted the importance of the media,print, electronic, and social in creating awareness and sustaining public engagement on the initiative.
Earlier, DIG Lakanu informed the monarch and members of the Olubadan Advisory Council that the recruitment of 50,000 police constables is currently ongoing nationwide.
He expressed concern over the low level of participation from the South-West region and urged traditional rulers to help drive awareness.
Lakanu, who was accompanied by senior police officers including the state Commissioner of Police and an Assistant Inspector-General, also hinted at the proposed introduction of state policing in Nigeria, noting that it would enhance security and bring policing closer to the people.
Among dignitaries present at the meeting were members of the Olubadan Advisory Council, including Oba Kola Adegbola (Otun Balogun), Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi (Osi Olubadan), Oba Hamidu Ajibade (Asipa Olubadan), Oba Adebayo Akande (Ekerin Olubadan), Adetokunbo Akintola (Are Ago Balogun, rtd Rear Admiral), and Prof. Soji Adejumo (Ajiroba), alongside top palace officials.