The President-General of the Okun Development Association (ODA), Ambassador Akenson Rotimi, has called for increased support for community policing as part of efforts to address the growing insecurity across the country.
Speaking with Newsmen in Lokoja Ambassador Rotimi described insecurity as a major challenge that has created a cycle of fear and uncertainty nationwide, threatening the safety of citizens and hindering development at the grassroots.
According to him, the worsening security situation has forced many people to abandon their communities and avoid visiting their ancestral homes for fear of kidnapping and other criminal activities.
He stressed that conventional policing alone cannot effectively address the security challenges confronting the nation, emphasizing the need for collaboration among government agencies, community leaders, vigilante groups, and residents.
“Security is everybody’s responsibility,” he said, noting that collective efforts are essential to safeguarding lives and property.
The ODA President lamented the frequent cases of kidnapping involving people of Okun origin, describing the huge ransom demands by abductors as burdens beyond the financial capacity of many victims and their families.
Rotimi disclosed that the association has intensified advocacy for improved security across Okun communities and established the Okun Security Trust Fund to support local vigilantes and hunters with logistics and operational resources.
He explained that the Trust Fund is managed by reputable personalities, including former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bayo Ojo, who serves as its chairman.
The ODA President appealed to sons and daughters of Okunland, as well as other well-meaning Nigerians, to contribute to the Trust Fund to strengthen community-based security initiatives and enhance the protection of lives and property across the region.
