By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the importance of community policing, describing the relationship between the police and the public as inseparable.According to him, “The police are the community, and the community are the police.”The IGP charged officers and personnel of the Imo State Police Command to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and integrity in the discharge of their duties. He urged them to treat members of the public with respect, remain dedicated to the protection of lives and property, deepen community engagement, strengthen intelligence led policing and ensure prompt and effective responses to security challenges.Speaking on election security, Disu stressed the need for early, comprehensive and coordinated planning, as well as sustained engagement with relevant stakeholders. He directed the command to maintain close collaboration with all relevant partners to guarantee professional security management during elections in line with the objectives of the Comprehensive Action Plan for Election Security Management.Also speaking during the visit, the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 9 Headquarters, AIG Emeka Nwonyi, highlighted key professional and operational issues affecting policing within the zone. He emphasised the need for stronger inter command coordination and sustained security operations to address emerging threats effectively.Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, briefed the IGP on the prevailing security situation in the state. He outlined the command’s operational activities, crime fighting efforts, achievements, existing challenges and critical requirements needed to enhance its effectiveness and improve service delivery.Stakeholders at the event delivered goodwill messages and commended the police for their efforts in maintaining peace and security across the state. They also pledged continued support for policing initiatives and community based security programmes.Among those who spoke were the Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee in Imo State, Evangelist Bethran Uzodinma; a representative of Citizens Advocacy for Peace Is Possible in Nigeria, Mr Chibuike; Eze M. C. Nwokoma; and the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Owerri Branch.In a related engagement, the IGP paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers and Eze Imo, Eze Emmanuel Okeke. During the meeting, both leaders discussed issues relating to peace, security and community partnership.The discussions underscored the critical role of traditional institutions in conflict prevention, community mobilisation and the promotion of peaceful coexistence across communities.The visit was attended by senior police officers, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, tactical commanders and personnel of the Imo State Police Command. Representatives of traditional institutions, religious bodies, professional associations, community groups, civil society organisations, youth groups and the media were also present.