By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has strengthened its partnership with young community leaders after a strategic security meeting involving Youth Presidents and Youth Leaders from all 31 Local Government Areas of the state. The meeting, held under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deepening community policing and sustaining the peace currently enjoyed across the state.
Addressing the gathering, CP Azare praised the youth leaders for what he described as their discipline, maturity, and crucial role in maintaining security throughout the year. He noted that their timely intelligence sharing and peaceful interventions helped the Command avert several potential crises and contributed significantly to successful operations in 2025. The CP also extended appreciation to the state’s Paramount Rulers for their guidance and the state government for continued support to the security system.
The Commissioner urged youth leaders to prioritize dialogue when engaging with investors, contractors, and development partners within their communities. According to him, constructive engagement fosters development and strengthens trust, while confrontation only damages community image and hinders progress.
On cultural activities, CP Azare informed attendees of a government directive restricting masquerade displays strictly to designated village or town hall squares. He emphasized that communities must seek formal approval from the Commissioner of Police before holding such events, assuring that the Command would provide security once proper clearance is given. Unauthorized masquerade outings, he warned, will attract sanctions.
A strong caution against jungle justice also formed a key part of the CP’s message. He condemned mob action as unlawful and barbaric, stressing that no group has the right to take laws into its hands. Offenders, he warned, will be arrested and prosecuted. He encouraged youths to hand over suspects to the Police for proper investigation and trial.
CP Azare further disclosed the arrest and arraignment of five individuals who circulated a false kidnapping report involving students of Oron Secondary School. He described the action as reckless, capable of inciting fear, and a direct threat to public peace. He assured residents that the Police Command will continue to crack down on misinformation and any attempts to destabilize the state.
The Commissioner appealed to youth leaders to promote truthful reporting, responsible use of social media, and cooperation with Divisional Police Officers for early detection and resolution of security threats.
In their response, youth leaders and other representatives commended the Commissioner for maintaining peace and security in the state. They pledged continued collaboration with the Police and vowed to discourage criminal activities among young people.
A representative of the state’s content creators also pledged cooperation with the Command, promising to discourage cybercrime and assist in identifying offenders hiding under the guise of digital content creation.
Youth representatives at the meeting included Ulap Bright Afahakan (Eket Senatorial District), Chief Ubong Akpan (Uyo Senatorial District), Comrade Udeme Inyang (Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District), and Mr. Ekanem Ekanem, President of the Ibom Content Creators Forum.
The meeting concluded with both sides renewing their commitment to deepening cooperation, promoting community values, and sustaining the peace and development of Akwa Ibom State.
