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CP Azare warns residents against jungle justice, says allegations do not justify violence against suspects.
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Police boss cautions youths against cultism, thuggery and cybercrime.
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Political leaders, supporters urged to shun violence and destruction of property.
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CP demands professionalism, courtesy and prompt response from officers.
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Residents urged to protect critical infrastructure and report suspicious activities.
October 07, (THEWILL) – The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has warned residents against mob action, political violence and other acts capable of undermining peace and security in the state.
Azare, who gave the warning during the command’s celebration of Customer Service Week at its headquarters in Uyo on Wednesday, also charged police personnel to uphold professionalism, fairness, courtesy and responsiveness in their dealings with members of the public.
The commissioner said effective policing was inseparable from quality public service, stressing that every interaction between the police and citizens, whether while receiving complaints, responding to distress calls or providing assistance, could affect public confidence in the Force.
He directed officers and personnel to listen attentively, explain their actions clearly and treat members of the public with dignity, irrespective of their social status or background.
On mob action and jungle justice, Azare said no allegation of wrongdoing justified violence against a suspect, warning that mob attacks could result in loss of lives, compromise investigations and expose perpetrators to criminal prosecution.
Azare stated, “Citizens must resist the temptation to take the law into their own hands. Every allegation should be properly investigated, and suspects should be allowed to face the Police and the courts in accordance with the law. We will continue to enforce the law impartially while protecting the rights and lives of all residents.”
The commissioner also called on young people to shun violence, cultism, thuggery, and cybercrime, describing the youth as an important part of the future of Akwa Ibom State.
He urged parents, educators and community leaders to provide young people with proper guidance, mentorship and constructive opportunities, while appealing to youths to use digital platforms responsibly and protect their personal information.
Azare further advised victims of online fraud to preserve relevant evidence and report incidents promptly to the Police. He also urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it online.
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The Police Commissioner warned that cultural activities must not be used as a cover for intimidation, assault, extortion or disruption of public peace, stressing that organisers had a responsibility to ensure that their programmes remained peaceful and lawful.
He similarly described the destruction and vandalism of critical infrastructure as a threat to the wellbeing of the entire society, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the Police.
On politics, Azare appealed to political leaders and their supporters to conduct their activities peacefully, saying political differences must not become an excuse for threats, violence or destruction of property.
He assured residents that the Command remained committed to protecting lives and property and enforcing the law impartially.
The event brought together representatives of the Police Community Relations Committee, Nigeria Union of Journalists, National Youth Council of Nigeria, civil society organisations and the Christian Association of Nigeria, among other stakeholders.
Azare appreciated members of the public for their cooperation and timely provision of information, urging them to maintain open communication with the Police and promptly report emergencies and suspicious activities through appropriate channels.
He said the Command would continue to work with communities and other stakeholders towards building a safer, more peaceful and law-abiding Akwa Ibom State.
