Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 9, Umuahia, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has read the riot act to criminal elements operating within the zone, vowing to bring the full weight of the law on anyone found disturbing public peace.
AIG Uzuegbu gave the warning when he received the new leadership of the Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State, led by its Chairman, Deacon Steve Oko, during a courtesy visit to his office.
He declared that the Zone 9 Command has “zero tolerance for criminality,” adding that no part of the states under the command would be allowed to serve as a haven for criminals.
Uzuegbu assured residents of the safety of their lives and property, particularly as the Christmas and New Year festivities approach. He noted that officers and men of the Command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, were fully committed to ensuring peace and order in the zone.
The AIG, however, urged members of the public to always provide security agencies with useful information that could aid the tracking and arrest of criminal elements.
Describing journalists as critical stakeholders in nation-building, Uzuegbu charged media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession and embrace developmental journalism.
He urged the press to use its platform to promote peace, unity, and social progress, pledging the Command’s readiness to partner with journalists as allies in the pursuit of public safety and good governance.
The police chief further admonished reporters to ensure objectivity in their reportage and to steer clear of fake news and sensationalism.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel, Deacon Oko, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the media and the police for improved synergy.
Oko emphasized the importance of collaboration between both institutions, urging the police to always view journalists as partners in progress rather than adversaries.
He noted that the media, as the watchdog of society, has both moral and constitutional responsibilities to hold leaders accountable to the people.
The NUJ Chairman commended the police for their sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property, while urging them to remain vigilant and professional, especially officers manning checkpoints.
He also appealed to police authorities to check unprofessional conduct among personnel to enhance the image of the Force.
Other members of the Chapel’s Executive and stakeholders were present during the courtesy visit at the Zonal Headquarters, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia.
