Religious organization will only be observed when public order is under the control of the Government. No religious organization will expose their members to gather in an environment where criminal activities are prevalent and override the frequency control of the Government. The involvement of V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa in community policing should be seen as a positive development, especially among those in rural areas.
The Federal Government of Nigeria as spent over 14 trillion naira since the return of democracy to the country. Various forms of violence continue to escalate beyond the authorities’ imagination with reports of daily killings in different parts of the country. The establishment of the PCRC was approved through the office of the president. The PCRC strictly adheres to the Nigeria Police Forces, as power is conferred upon the Force for the maintenance of law and order throughout the country, as outlined in Section 4 of the Police Act of 1967, Cap 359 of the Laws of the Federation, 1990.
The police system has continue to plays a crucial role in maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law. The Nigeria Police Force is tasked with preventing and detecting crime, apprehending offenders, preserving law and order, protecting life and property and ensuring the enforcement of all laws and orders.
In addition to these responsibilities, the Nigeria Police Force is granted statutory powers to investigate crimes, apprehend offenders, interrogate suspects, prosecute individuals, grant bail to suspects pending completion of investigations or prior to court arraignment, serve summons, regulate or disperse unlawful processions and assemblies.
Furthermore, the police are authorized to search and seize properties suspected to be stolen or associated with criminal activities, as well as to take and record measurements, photographs and fingerprint impressions of individuals for identification purposes.
COMMUNITY POLICING: THE ROLE OF V/S/E TOSHO OSHOFFA
The crime rate in Lagos State is a pressing issue, ranking at the top in the western part of the country. In response to this challenge, the Lagos State government, under the leadership of former Governor Fashola established a trust fund for the Federal police in the state to address the escalating violence. However, the introduction of community policing, in which V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa (Shepherd of CCC International Headquarters, Ketu, Lagos) is a member has indicate significant development. This initiative was brought about through the enactment of the PCRC Act by the legislative chamber, with the approval of former President Jonathan.
It established under the law that community policing is a collaborative effort between the public and the police to prevent and control crime within the community. It is a modern policing strategy that goes beyond traditional crime-fighting methods, emphasizing partnership with community members to identify security priorities and address issues within the community. The relationship between the Nigeria Police and citizens is often fraught with suspicion, prejudice, and conflict. V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa, as an officer in white garment within the Ketu community will/should understands the challenges he faces, knowing that he will be under scrutiny by those who engage in criminal activities.
The police In Ketu and Ikeja will rely on V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa for support in achieving their mission. Public information is crucial to the police, as informed and educated citizens are essential participants in a democratic society. Therefore, V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa and others involved in community policing will be expected to uphold these values and contribute to the safety and security of their communities.
V/S/E TOSHO OSHOFFA IS AN OFFICER WITHOUT A UNIFORM.
The shepherd of CCC International Headquarters Ketu l, Lagos State is task with the responsibility of bringing people together to create and make decisions about their environment. Community involvement is essential in incorporating local values and attitudes into any program and ensuring the perspective of the layman is considered.
It is imperative that V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa possess socio-psychological instincts to bridge the gap between the police and the public in Ketu and its surround areas. The safety of CCC KETU International Headquarters and its members must be a top priority for V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa, who will actively work towards establishing an informal security outfit (vigilante) to collaborate with formal security organizations.
V/S/E Tosho Oshoffa will embody the belief that “Police is Your Friend,” fostering trust and cooperation within his jurisdiction. It is our firm conviction that this approach will not only enhance security but also discourage malicious activities.
