By Uchenna Ezeadigwe
Awka
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 13, AIG Miller Dantawaye, has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling crime across the zone while strengthening collaboration with sister security agencies, state governments, and the public.
Speaking in an interview shortly after assuming office as the substantive AIG for Zone 13, Dantawaye said he would leverage his extensive operational experience, including his service as Commissioner of Police during the Kogi State governorship election, to enhance security and promote professionalism within the command.
According to him, preparations for the 2027 general election are already underway, with the Nigeria Police Force determined to provide a secure environment for voters and other stakeholders.
“I have gathered considerable operational experience over the years, including serving as Commissioner of Police during the Kogi election. Those experiences will be brought to bear in Anambra to ensure a peaceful, free and fair election,” he said.
The AIG described the former Commissioner of Police in Anambra, AIG Ikioye Orutugu, as a vibrant and committed officer, expressing confidence in the command’s readiness to deliver on its mandate.
“The officers on the ground only require effective supervision, and I am here with my experience to provide the needed leadership. I assure residents that Anambra will remain safe. Preparations are already in top gear,” he added.
Dantawaye also disclosed that following the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election, the Nigeria Police Force would intensify the retraining of personnel ahead of the 2027 general election to further improve professionalism and operational efficiency.
As part of his agenda, the AIG said he would embark on a tour of all police formations under Zone 13 to engage officers on professionalism, discipline, and responsible policing.
“We have planned to visit all the formations under my command to speak with officers on professionalism because we must remain true professionals in the discharge of our duties,” he stated.
He further announced plans to convene stakeholders’ meetings involving civil society organisations, traditional rulers, and community leaders to deepen collaboration between the police and the public.
“We want people to tell us where we are getting it wrong so that we can improve. Policing is more effective when the public and the police work together,” he said.
Appealing to residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information, Dantawaye urged members of the public to regard police officers as partners in maintaining peace.
“Our men have been properly charged, and I appeal to members of the public to see police officers as their friends by providing useful information that will assist us. Information sharing is the only way we can effectively secure our communities,” he said.
The AIG also commended the Commissioners of Police serving under the zone, describing them as experienced and operationally sound officers. He particularly praised the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, describing him as a seasoned commander whose approach to crime-fighting has contributed to a reduction in criminal activities.
“Crime reduction is not achieved by carrying guns alone. It requires both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including intelligence gathering, community engagement, and collaboration,” he noted.
He assured residents that he would work closely with the Commissioners of Police, state governments, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to strengthen the security architecture across the zone.
“I will synergise with the Commissioners of Police, particularly the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, and my colleagues in other states under the zone, while bringing my expertise to bear. We also need the support of state governments and useful information from well-meaning members of the public,” he said.
On the growing menace of drug abuse, Dantawaye advised youths to stay away from illicit drugs, warning that substance abuse often fuels violent crimes and other social vices.
He directed Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to identify locations where illicit drugs are sold and pledged closer collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to dismantle drug distribution networks.
“Partnership with the NDLEA is paramount. We will work together to take the fight against drugs to the streets and ensure that those involved are brought to justice,” he said.
The AIG again urged members of the public to channel credible intelligence through their respective Divisional Police Officers, stressing that effective policing depends on the active cooperation of communities.
“I want the public to work closely with their DPOs and provide relevant information. That is the only way we can succeed in securing our communities,” he added.
