Abia police boss urges stronger collaboration with media to boost policing

The Commissioner of Police in charge of Abia State Police Command, Mr. Danladi Isa, has called for a stronger working relationship between the police and the media, saying effective policing thrives on collaboration with journalists.

Isa made the remarks when executive members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, paid him a courtesy visit at the Bende Area Police Command headquarters in Umuahia.

The police boss described journalists as key partners of the Nigeria Police Force, noting that the relationship is mutually beneficial. He said the media helps to inform the public about police activities, while reports from journalists often provide valuable intelligence on events within society.

“Journalists in Abia State have consistently upheld the truth in their engagement with the police,” Isa said. “Security agencies have a responsibility to keep the media regularly informed on developments within the state. Periodic interactions with journalists create opportunities for meaningful engagement, enabling the media to interrogate police activities and address issues of public interest.”

The commissioner commended journalists in the state for their professionalism and patriotism, assuring them of the command’s support and cooperation to ensure accurate and effective reporting.

“Of course, the media have remained supportive, even during challenging moments. The command will continue to encourage synergy and maintain an excellent working relationship with journalists,” he added.

He stressed that both the police and journalists are duty-bound to serve the public and ensure the safety and stability of the state.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Deacon Steve Oko, said the visit was aimed at familiarising the new chapel executive with the command’s leadership, discussing issues of mutual interest, and exploring areas of collaboration.

Oko commended officers and men of the Abia State Police Command for maintaining peace in the state, noting that journalists can only perform effectively in a safe and conducive environment.

“It is evident that security has improved across the state, and we commend you and other security agencies for the progress recorded. A safe environment is essential for journalists to operate effectively,” he said.

However, Oko expressed concern that the police often do not involve the Correspondents’ Chapel in press conferences and suspect parades. He urged the command to ensure that all members of the chapel are included in such activities, stressing that each journalist represents a media house and its headquarters expect coverage and balanced reporting, especially in crime-related cases.

He assured the commissioner of the chapel’s readiness to sustain a cordial and productive working relationship with the police command.