Ex-CP, Ojukwu raises alarm over 1:245 police-resident ratio in Abuja

A former Commissioner of Police, Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, has lamented that the security situation in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is facing significant challenges, with a police-resident ratio of 1:245.

Speaking at the Feast of Barracuda event organized by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), Sahara Deck, in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Ojukwu noted that the ratio is one of the lowest in Nigeria, making it difficult for the police to effectively respond to security threats in the city.

Dr. Ojukwu said, “The police are overstretched, and the ratio is alarming. With a population of over 4 million people in the FCT, the police are struggling to maintain law and order. This situation demands urgent attention from the authorities to ensure the safety and security of residents.”

Dr. Ojukwu attributed the security challenge to inadequate funding, poor equipment, and a lack of manpower, stressing that the police need the support of the community to address the situation.

“The police cannot do it alone. We need the cooperation of the community to tackle the security challenges in Abuja,” he emphasized.

Following Dr. Ojukwu’s keynote address, a panel discussion was held featuring security experts and stakeholders.

The panelists discussed strategies for improving security in Abuja, including community policing, intelligence gathering, and collaboration with security agencies.

Earlier, the Capoon of the Sahara Deck, Olamide Oni, emphasized the need for community collaboration to address the security challenges in Abuja.

Oni said, “We cannot leave security solely in the hands of the police. We must work together to ensure our safety and security. The community must be proactive in reporting suspicious activities and supporting the police to ensure effective crime prevention.”

Oni also stressed the importance of intelligence gathering and sharing, saying, “Intelligence is key in preventing crime. We must encourage the community to provide useful information to the police to help prevent criminal activities.”

The Feast of Barracuda event aimed to bring together stakeholders to discuss the security situation in Abuja and proffer solutions to address the challenges.