Police, Stakeholders Intensify Collaboration to Tackle Cultism in Lagos
By Naomi Onome
Eze Chika Nwokedi, the Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo has praised the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani, for his proactive approach to improving security through sustained engagement with communities and police formations across the state.
Nwokedi gave the commendation after attending a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Area Commander of Area M Command, Tokunbo Abaniwonda, during CP Fatai Tijani’s visit. The meeting brought together community leaders and security stakeholders to address the rising incidence of cult-related violence in the Alimosho axis.
According to Nwokedi, the engagement provided a platform for frank discussions on strengthening community policing as a practical solution to insecurity. He stressed that civilians must not resort to self-help or violence but instead contribute through intelligence sharing, dialogue, and community-driven solutions.
Nwokedi also urged residents of Idimu, Ikotun, Igando and surrounding areas to support security agencies with timely and credible information to enable swift intervention.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace and development, he called for stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities, noting that trust and cooperation remain key to tackling crime effectively.
Speaking during the visit, CP Tijani reiterated his commitment to enhancing security through stakeholder engagement and community-based policing strategies. Since assuming office on March 26, 2026, he said the command has prioritised advocacy meetings, crime prevention initiatives, and partnerships aimed at reducing criminal activities across Lagos.
The Commissioner explained that his tour of police formations, including Area M Command covering Idimu, Ikotun, Igando and Egbeda, is designed to assess security challenges, improve operational efficiency, and boost morale among officers.
He identified key challenges such as manpower shortages, logistics constraints, and inadequate equipment, noting that addressing these issues is critical to achieving effective policing across the state.
Tijani warned that a lack of public cooperation could embolden criminal elements, stressing that security is a shared responsibility.
“The police cannot do everything alone. We need the support of the people to expose those involved in criminal activities,” he said.
He also raised concerns over the growing threat posed by cult groups, describing their activities as dangerous to lives, property, and economic stability. He urged residents, particularly in Agege and Idimu, to remain vigilant and provide useful intelligence, assuring them that such information would be treated with strict confidentiality.
The CP further called on parents and community leaders to play a more active role in guiding youths away from crime by reinforcing discipline and traditional values.
He added that the command would intensify operations against criminal hideouts and sustain patrols across flashpoints, while deepening collaboration with communities to improve overall security.
Stakeholders at the meeting pledged continued support for the police through improved information sharing and stronger community engagement.
Eze Chika Nwokedi, Okpoko I, President, Ndigbo Buru Otu Association of Nigeria, was present at the Lagos State Commissioner of Police’s visit, accompanied by executive members of the association.
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