The Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of Oyo and Osun States has called on the Federal Government to expedite the establishment of state police as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and improve responses to criminal activities across the country.
The association made the appeal in a communiqué issued at the end of its meeting and signed by its Chairman, Adebisi Adesola.
The retired senior government officials also expressed concern over the rising level of insecurity across the country and stressed the need for urgent measures to address emerging threats.
The group further sympathised with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over the recent abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
According to the communiqué, stronger collaboration among security agencies through effective intelligence sharing remains critical in tackling insecurity and improving operational effectiveness.
The association also advocated stronger community-based policing and improved intelligence gathering through collaboration involving traditional rulers, community leaders, vigilante groups, local hunters and security agencies.
AREHSPSOOS noted that citizens equally have important roles to play in safeguarding their communities by remaining vigilant and participating actively in security efforts.
The association encouraged Nigerians to embrace the security awareness campaign, “If you see something, say something,” while urging local governments, traditional institutions and community leaders to revive grassroots sensitisation initiatives aimed at strengthening public awareness on security issues.
It also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic.
The association maintained that restoring peace and stability in the country requires collective efforts involving government institutions, security agencies and citizens.
