The Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries of Oyo and Osun States, AREHSPSOOS, has expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the country and called on the Federal Government to make the establishment of state police a quick reality as part of steps towards strengthening internal security and improve response to criminal activities disturbing the peace of the country.
The Association also commiserated with the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, over the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area.
The association made the call in a communiqué issued at the end of its meeting and signed by its Chairman, Chief Adebisi Adesola.
The retired top government officials also called for more heightened synergy among security agencies through effective intelligence sharing, emphasing that delibrate synergy among security outfits remains critical to combating insecurity.
The association further emphasised the need for stronger community policing and intelligence gathering through closer collaboration among traditional rulers, community leaders, vigilante groups, local hunters and security agencies.
According to the communiqué, citizens also have vital roles to play in safeguarding their communities by remaining vigilant and being their brothers’ keepers.
The association advised Nigerians to embrace the popular security consciousness slogan, “If you see something, say something,” while calling on local governments, traditional rulers and community leaders to revive grassroots sensitisation programmes aimed at promoting public awareness on security matters.
AREHSPSOOS also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic among the populace.
The association maintained that collective efforts involving government, security agencies and citizens remain essential to restoring peace, safety and stability across the country.
