The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), , has convened a strategic security meeting with key stakeholders in Ebonyi State to strengthen cooperation, improve intelligence sharing, and address emerging security concerns across the state.
The meeting, held at the Police Officers’ Mess within the Ebonyi State Police Command Headquarters, brought together traditional rulers, community security officials, religious leaders, government representatives, and members of the (NURTW).
The DIG explained that the engagement was part of a directive from the Inspector-General of Police for senior police officers to collaborate with critical stakeholders within their zones to enhance community policing and improve security response.
He highlighted several security challenges affecting Ebonyi State, including violence linked to land disputes, youth-related conflicts, clashes involving herders, domestic-related killings, child trafficking, child abuse, highway robbery, attacks on schools, and protests against security agencies.
According to him, the Federal Government is aware of the operational difficulties facing the police nationwide and is working towards providing solutions. He added that recent discussions at the National Assembly include efforts to strengthen police funding through amendments to the Police Trust Fund.
However, stakeholders at the meeting expressed concerns over inadequate police resources, shortage of personnel, and limited operational capacity across communities in Ebonyi State.
The traditional ruler of Okposi Autonomous Community, , lamented the lack of basic facilities such as operational vehicles, writing materials, and sufficient manpower in many police divisions.
He noted that the shortage of personnel has affected effective policing, especially in rural communities where residents struggle to access timely security intervention.
The monarch also called for improved protection for traditional rulers across Nigeria, suggesting that security personnel should be attached to royal fathers due to increasing attacks on community leaders.
Similarly, a market leader from Ezza South Local Government Area, Nwakpa Luios, appealed to authorities to equip police officers with the necessary resources to tackle rising criminal activities.
He disclosed that traders at the Onueke market have experienced cases of burglary and livestock theft, adding that security officers often lack the manpower and equipment needed to respond promptly to emergencies.
According to him, an armed group recently attacked the market, stealing goods and killing livestock, while efforts to reach police authorities were unsuccessful due to operational limitations.
The stakeholders urged the government to urgently address police welfare, increase manpower, provide operational vehicles, and strengthen security infrastructure to protect lives and property in Ebonyi State.
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