The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Hope Urunwa Okafor, has expressed concern over rising cases of murder in some communities across the state, calling for stronger collaboration with journalists to address the trend.
Okafor made the appeal at the weekend when members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi State Council, paid her a courtesy visit in her office.
She noted that although Ebonyi State remains one of the most peaceful states in the country, the increasing cases of violent killings in some areas were becoming worrisome and required urgent attention.
The Police Commissioner urged journalists to support the command with balanced and accurate reportage that would help strengthen security operations and community vigilance.
“I am committed to ensuring the security of lives and property of the people of Ebonyi State.
“But we are worried about the recent cases of murder in some communities. We need the cooperation of the media to help curb this ugly trend before I leave the state," she said.
Okafor also advised residents of the state to promptly report security threats and suspicious activities in their communities, stressing that timely information remains critical to effective policing.
She further cautioned against the generalisation of the conduct of a few erring officers to the entire police force, noting that many personnel of the Nigeria Police Force have made sacrifices to protect lives and property.
“Do not judge the entire police force by the actions of a few bad officers. Many of our men and women are doing their best under difficult circumstances to secure the society,” she added.
Describing journalism as a noble profession, Okafor charged media practitioners to discharge their duties professionally, with a high sense of responsibility, objectivity, and conscience.
“Your job as journalists is very critical. It requires a sound mind and good conscience. You should be seen to live above board in your duties,” she said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ Ebonyi State, Comrade Uchenna Inya, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the police and the media as partners in progress.
He commended the Commissioner of Police for her swift response to issues of human rights and her intervention in the alleged dehumanisation of a child by a cleric in Izzi Local Government Area, which led to the arrest of the suspect and others involved.
Inya assured the police command of continued responsible reportage and collaboration in promoting peace and security in the state.
