Toba Owojaiye reportingÂ
Benin, EdoÂ
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, urged for the decentralization of Nigeria’s security architecture to address rising crime and criminality. Speaking at the Edo State Security Summit in Benin City, the governor emphasized the need for a legislative framework allowing local agencies to collaborate actively with federal security agencies.
During the summit, Obaseki inaugurated the State’s Command and Control Center, named after former Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, and the Special Force Building.
Highlighting collaborative efforts with security agencies and technology-driven public safety systems, the governor stressed the importance of citizen participation in tackling insecurity. He noted a 47.7% reduction in crime incidents in the state between 2020 and the present, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of security agencies.
Truth Live News reports that Obaseki stressed the role of traditional leaders in providing intelligence and local cooperation. He emphasized the pertinent need of empowering local communities to contribute to decision-making in supporting security efforts. The governor predicted that future security measures would rely heavily on technology.
Major Gen. Ohifeme Enemai (Rtd), the keynote speaker, emphasized the need for a comprehensive security strategy covering citizens, businesses, visitors, infrastructure, and information. Enemai urged seamless collaboration to create a safe, peaceful, and secure environment.
The governor expressed pride in the reforms undertaken during his administration, including significant investments in refurbishing the police training school in Benin City. He highlighted the training of over 5,000 operatives for the Edo State Vigilante Network, with an additional 1,500 undergoing training.
Notable attendees at the event included former Inspector General of Police and Chairman of Police Service Commission, Solomon Arase; Minister for Police Affairs, Sen. Ibrahim Gaidam; former Commissioner of Police and Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor, Fatai Owoseni (Rtd); Edo State Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Kingsley Uwagbale, and other dignitaries.