•Clampdown on Okada to Continue
New Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, says there will be watertight security in the state, especially during and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He also noted that the clampdown on commercial motorcycles, known as Okada, in prohibited areas would be sustained and intensified as it had helped to reduce crime and road accidents.
Fayoade gave the assurance on Thursday while interacting with journalists after taking over as new CP in Lagos Command.
He took over the baton of leadership from DCP Waheed Ayilara, who was the acting CP.
Ayilara took over from the former CP, Mr Idowu Owohunwa, who was promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, now in charge of Federal Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon, Lagos.
Fayoade said the command would work in synergy with other security agencies to secure all parts of the state.
He stated, “Residents of Lagos should go about their normal business, they should enjoy their Christmas and New Year.
“We are going to provide watertight security that will protect lives and property. Our men will be visible at all areas, fun centres, our patrol will be very effective. Christmas and New Year will be crime free.”
The new police commissioner commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his support and commitment to security in the state, while appreciating his predecessor, Owohunwa, and Ayillara for the security architecture in the state.
Fayoade pledged his dedication, commitment and resolve to the principles of justice and safety in the state, saying he would ensure the unalloyed commitment of both officers and men of the command to ensure security in the state.
He added, “This will be achieved through practical, proactive policing, community engagement, strict and effective law enforcement strategies. I am determined to create a peaceful and crime-free environment in which all residents of Lagos can flourish.
“Our vision is to be a highly professional and trustworthy police force that serves as a beacon of excellence in maintaining law and order.
“We aim to build a strong partnership with community members, local organisations and law enforcement agencies to foster a safe and secure environment for all and sundry.”
The new police boss noted that his vision for effective policing of Lagos would rest on pillars like community engagement and crime prevention and reduction, among others.
On the issues of kidnapping, cultism, robbery and traffic robbery, Fayoade said a special focus would be on these crimes as they negatively impact the citizens and society.
He said a specialised unit, made up of well-trained and properly-equipped personnel, would be established to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to confront these crimes.
The police boss promised to collaborate with the judiciary to ensure swift prosecution and conviction of criminals to serve as deterrence to others. He further noted that intelligence gathering capabilities would be strengthened, and the battle would be taken to the criminal elements, their hotspots and vulnerable areas.
The police boss said the police would be in aggressive pursuit of violators of the law, while ensuring that the public space was dominated by the officers.
He added, “It is pertinent to note that the clampdown on commercial motorcycle operators in prohibited areas, which has led to drastic reduction of crime and accident cases will be sustained and intensified.
“Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers will give daily updates on the level of compliance in their areas of responsibility. Other measures will be in place to ensure smooth, total and strict compliance.”
Fayoade, who commended journalists for their coverage of events, said they play a crucial role in a democratic society, stressing that the police would collaborate with them transparently for effective dissemination of information on crime, safety measures and public awareness campaigns initiated by the police.
He noted, “As the eyes and ears of the public, we shall welcome constructive criticism on our performance to strengthen our security architecture in the state.
“Police accessibility to the press and members of the public will be given prominence and more dedicated lines will be released for unhindered accessibility and feedback on issues of community safety and security.”
He restated his commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism.
