By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
As part of ongoing efforts to combat insecurity and strengthen community policing, Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, has launched a robust grassroots engagement tour across the Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi West Senatorial District.
The tour, which began with a symbolic visit to the Palace of the Agbana of Isanlu, His Royal Majesty Moses Babatunde, signals a fresh chapter in police-community collaboration aimed at tackling crime from the bottom up.
“This visit is not just a courtesy call. It is a deliberate move to seek spiritual guidance and cultural blessings as we work together to address the security challenges bedeviling the Yagba axis,” CP Dantawaye said.
The Commissioner was accompanied by senior officers from the Isanlu Area Command, Divisional Police Officers, and other stakeholders in the region.
Addressing security personnel and residents at the Isanlu Area Command Headquarters, CP Dantawaye delivered a compelling message focused on discipline, professionalism, community trust, and intelligence-driven policing.
“Criminals don’t disappear into thin air; they live among us. They pass through our markets, roads, and farms,” he said.
“Security begins with observation. If you see something, say something. One call can save a life.”
He urged residents to hold police officers accountable, noting that discipline starts with how officers dress, talk, and conduct themselves. He emphasized the need for mutual trust, saying, “Our doors are open. Report any misconduct. We can only succeed when the people trust us.”
Dantawaye also encouraged communities to form vigilante groups and neighborhood watch teams, but stressed that they must operate under lawful oversight and in partnership with security agencies.
“We welcome community support, but we do not support jungle justice. Every effort must align with the rule of law and human rights,” he cautioned.
In recognition of his proactive leadership and grassroots outreach, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) of Isanlu Area Command presented an Award of Excellence to CP Dantawaye. The award was received amid applause from community stakeholders.
Responding, the Agbana of Isanlu, praised the CP’s humility and genuine approach to leadership.
“This kind of gesture is rare. You have shown that traditional rulers matter in security architecture. We are grateful for your respect and professionalism,” the monarch said.
The engagement drew participation from a wide cross-section of community representatives, including: Traditional rulers Fulani, Hausa, and Igbo leaders, Traders and artisans, Youth and women leaders, Transport and okada unions, Hunters and vigilantes, Representatives of DSS, NSCDC, and other security agencies
CP Dantawaye reaffirmed his commitment to sustained dialogue, promising to build on the momentum by continuing his tour of other senatorial districts in the coming weeks.
“Security cannot be outsourced. It starts here, at the grassroots. We must work together—police and people—to keep our communities safe,” he concluded.