Dr. Emeka Ononamadu and CP, Abia State, Danladi Isa, at the event
By Our Reporter
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Mutual accountability between the Nigeria Police and the communities they serve has been identified as a crucial factor in sustainably improving policing and ensuring public safety, especially at a time when economic hardship is likely to increase insecurity and crime.
During a one-day Mutual Accountability Dialogue organised by the Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights (CCIDESOR) with support from International Alert and UK International Development, stakeholders gathered to present the findings of scorecards assessing five police divisions and over eight communities in Abia State.
The event saw the active participation of senior police officers and top community leaders, reflecting a strong willingness from both sides to collaborate in strengthening security efforts.
The Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed his commitment to fostering mutual trust, respect, and support to enhance police services to communities.
He emphasised that mutual respect between law enforcement and the public is essential for effective 21st-century policing.
Addressing senior police officers at the event, Isa urged them to promote humility and professionalism while serving citizens. He also highlighted the importance of continuous public education on legal matters, ensuring that both police officers and community members have a shared understanding of their rights and responsibilities.
Presenting the report, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu, representing CCIDESOR, described the scorecard as an objective assessment of the issues that affect the relationship between communities and the police.
He noted five key areas requiring urgent attention, with ignorance, stigmatisation and communication gaps emerging as significant challenges.
He explained that these gaps have fueled mistrust and deepened stigmatisation on both sides — some due to recent incidents, others stemming from historical grievances.
Ononamadu stressed that open and consistent communication between the police and the public is vital for rebuilding trust and fostering cooperation.
A renewed sense of trust and respect, he added, would encourage communities to share critical intelligence with law enforcement, ultimately improving crime prevention and public safety.
It was noted that each time the police angers the communities, it affects cooperation as well as each time the communities offend the police.
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Abia State Police Community Relations Committee and the Abia State National Youth Council commended CCIDESOR and its partners for championing this initiative.
They praised International Alert for its notable contributions to security advocacy and community engagement.
The event concluded with an action plan aimed at strengthening police-community relations and addressing identified concerns.
The Abia State Commissioner of Police received special recognition for his bold efforts in promoting discipline within the police force and his unwavering support for Police-Community Accountability Dialogue in the state.
