The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Oyo State, CP Johnson Oluwole Adenola, has pledged to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to crime and ensure the safety of all residents through a comprehensive security strategy.
He made this commitment during his inaugural media briefing held on Thursday, March 13 at the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan.
In his address, Adenola expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun and the Police Service Commission for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the Oyo State Command.
He also praised his predecessor, CP Ayodele Oluyemi Sonubi, for laying a solid foundation in the fight against crime.
Unveiling his Strategic Action Plan, CP Adenola highlighted key areas of focus, including strict discipline within the force, upholding the rule of law, enhancing police capacity through training, embracing technology-driven policing, and deepening community collaboration.
He equally pledged to enforce all laws impartially while ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights and liberty.
“Discipline is the mainstay of effective law enforcement. We will maintain strict discipline at all policing levels and ensure professional and respectful conduct.
“He further emphasized that the Command would leverage intelligence and technology to enhance crime prevention and investigation efforts.
Acknowledging the unique security challenges facing Oyo State such as kidnapping, armed robbery, herders/farmers clashes, illegal mining, and cult-related violence, CP Adenola assured residents that the police under his leadership would be decisive and firm in tackling criminal activities.
“With your continued support and cooperation, the Command under my leadership will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to criminal activities,” he vowed.
In line with his vision of inclusive policing, Adenola stressed the importance of community engagement saying, “By involving citizens in policing decision-making, we embody Robert Peel’s principle that ‘the police are the public and the public are the police,’ thus fostering trust, collaboration, and inclusive policing,” he said.
He also highlighted the significance of collaboration with sister security agencies to address complex security challenges effectively.
The Commissioner however, expressed appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for his support, citing initiatives such as the ‘Light Up Oyo’ project, which has enhanced security and economic activities in the state.
He also commended the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) for its contributions to promoting security initiatives.
Adenola expressed readiness to work closely and collaboratively with the media, recognizing its role in shaping public perception and holding the police accountable.
“We pledge to foster a collaborative and respectful police-media relationship, underpinned by mutual trust and cooperation,” CP Adenola assured.
Adenola urged residents to embrace the principle of “If you see something, say something,” calling for collective efforts in making Oyo State a safer place.
“With your support and collaboration, I am confident that Oyo State will witness a robust policing environment that fosters peace and security from this moment onward,” the police boss concluded.