The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has sought deeper collaboration with traditional institutions to strengthen community safety and security across the state.
The police commissioner made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, as part of ongoing stakeholder engagements aimed at promoting community partnership and inclusive policing.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the visit aligns with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police on strengthening cooperation between the police and traditional institutions.
During the visit, Oyeniyi expressed appreciation to the Asagba for the support and hospitality extended to him since assuming office as Commissioner of Police in Delta State. He described traditional rulers as critical partners in maintaining peace and security and assured the monarch of the command’s commitment to sustaining a productive relationship with the palace.
The CP reiterated that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of the Nigeria Police Force and pledged to ensure that officers and men of the command discharge their duties professionally and effectively.
He also emphasized that the police maintain a firm disciplinary framework to promote accountability and professionalism among personnel.
Oyeniyi said the command would continue to work closely with the palace, community leaders and other stakeholders to reduce crime across Asaba and other parts of the state.
He stressed that effective policing depends on cooperation, trust and timely information sharing between security agencies and the communities they serve
In his remarks, the Asagba of Asaba congratulated the police commissioner on his appointment and assured him of the palace’s continued support and cooperation.
The monarch said the palace would sustain the cordial relationship it had enjoyed with previous commissioners of police and pledged to collaborate with the new leadership of the command in promoting peace and security within the kingdom.
He underscored the importance of peace to the development of Asaba, describing it as the city’s most valuable asset.
“Peace is the greatest industry in Asaba, and we are prepared to do everything to keep it that way,” the royal father said.
The Asagba also advocated community policing, noting that crime prevention is most effective when residents actively participate through intelligence sharing and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
The visit featured discussions on security challenges within the kingdom, public safety strategies, and measures to strengthen relations between the police and residents.
