The Uromi robbery incident has once again given credence to the clarion call by Nigerians on the immediate need to localize security in the country as it would require a preternatural disposition to execute any security plan that does not put local and community vigilance into consideration, and expect positive results.
Moving matters of security away from the Exclusive to the Concurrent list in the country’s Constitution has been recommended by many as a panacea to this specific security concern, which would afford both federal and state governments the right to legislate on security matters.
The Uromi incident cast ample illumination on Governor Godwin Obaseki’s security approach in the state; an approach borne out of clear foresight and deep insight into communal coexistence and safety, incorporating local vigilantes and grassroots surveillance into the state security architecture.
This has led to a working synergy between security agencies, vigilante network and youths in local communities. This synergy was evident in the Uromi robbery incident where community youths were able to aid security agencies by cordoning off escape routes, prompting the robbers to abandon their vehicles, huge sums of money and other valuables, while escaping on motorcycles.
The State Government has emphasized its determination to apprehend and bring to book the perpetrators of the daylight robbery which left death and destruction in its wake among other lengthy lists of mortal crimes by these hoodlums.
The State Government also expressed its heartfelt commiseration and empathy with families of victims of the unfortunate robbery incident. The incident has created a unique opportunity for the Obaseki administration to consolidate further on the strength of its already established security network to forestall future occurrences.
The State Government continues to strengthen its security network, putting in place surveillance measures that would aid security agencies for accurate and timely response to emergencies.
The upgrade of the State security architecture to include over 2,000 Special Police Constabularies, local vigilante network, Edo State Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV) and Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA), working in synchrony with federal security agencies, has enhanced security immensely in the state.
The establishment of the Edo State Command and Control Centre and its digitalization have also improved the level of intelligence gathering among security agencies in the state, aiding intra and inter agency communication as well as communication interface with local communities.
Edo State is deploying technology to make the state uninhabitable for criminal elements.
Security experts are at the disposal of the State Government, providing professional guidance, as the Obaseki administration remains committed in its determination to provide safety for all Edo residents at all times.
By John Ewah
