IGP reaffirms commitment to preventive policing

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By Madu Obi

The national coordinator of the Inspector-General of Police’s Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), SP Orvenonne Ikwen has reaffirmed the IGP’s commitment to preventive policing across the country.

Speaking at the stakeholders interactive session in Awka as part of activities to create awareness about the body, Ikwem said it is a proactive strategy for reducing crime by addressing its root causes through advocacy, mentorship, value reorientation, and community collaboration.

The exercise is part of ongoing efforts by the Police to strengthen preventive policing through strategic partnerships, youth engagement, and community participation.

The event brought together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, security agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations, community leaders, and other critical stakeholders who deliberated on sustainable approaches to addressing cultism, substance abuse, cybercrime, and other social vices.

Essentially, the event featured open engagements on practical strategies to prevent youth involvement in crime, strengthen community resilience, and enhance collaboration between the Police and the public.

To achieve the desired result, the coordinator approved the opening of POCACOV club in schools across Anambra State and urged stakeholders to take ownership of the campaign and guide young people towards productive ventures and responsible citizenship.

Addressing the gathering, the state Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who spoke on behalf of the Anambra Police Command, stressed that effective security is a shared responsibility requiring the active support of every segment of the society.

According to him, the Command remains committed to fostering stronger partnerships with communities in promoting peace, safety, and sustainable development.

There were also goodwill messages from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Traditional Rulers Council, leaders of women groups, among others.