Borno state Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has called on security agencies to devise security measures to ensure political campaigns are conducted devoid of violence.
Governor Zulum made the call at the opening of a two-day workshop in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital for three hundred community policing stakeholders in the North East.
Governor Babagana Zulum said, as a prelude to the 2023 general elections, the Nigeria Police which is the leading agency in election security should take proactive steps to ensure that campaigns are conducted peacefully across the country.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government Alhaji Usman Jidda Shuwa, the Governor underscored the importance of community policing in minimising criminal activities including thuggery and gangsterism.
He explained that the state government has been collaborating with security agencies through the civilian JTF, hunters and vigilantes to reduce crime in the society.
Governor Babagana Zulum also said the state government has been mobilising traditional rulers, opinion and religious leaders to be actively involved in the security of their domain.
Inspector General of Police Usman Alkali Baba remarked that the workshop is designed to deepen the implementation of the community policing model adopted by the Federal government in 2020.
Represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of logistics and supply DIG Zanna Ibrahim, the IG observed that community policing is the best strategy to address complex and emerging internal security challenges.
The IGP cautioned the Community Policing Officers against any unethical conduct or unruly behaviour capable of embarrassing the Force.
Representative of Shehu of Borno Zanna Borkoma of Borno Alhaji Mohammed Habib urged the Police to come up with a comprehensive intelligence sharing model between community leaders and the Nigeria Police for the success of the strategy.
Participants from the six states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe and Borno states are attending the workshop.
Dauda Iliya