Panelists at the Feast of Barracuda organized by Sahara Deck of National Association of Seadogs, Pyrates Confraternity in Abuja on Thursday.
By Chidiebere Ugwu
The Sahara Deck of National Association of Seadogs, otherwise known as Pyrates Confratanity on Thursday emphasized the importance of civilian collaboration in improving security within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its surrounding areas.
This message was conveyed during the annual feast of Barracuda organized by the Association in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, a retired Commissioner of Police, who made a keynote presentation on the topic, stressed that cordial relationships among security agencies and civilians are crucial for promoting national security interests.
He highlighted that effective collaboration and credible intelligence sharing pave the way for combating crime and criminality in the FCT.
Ojukwu expanded the required sphere of security to include “Political security which includes protecting our national sovereignty and political system from threats and pressures; Economic security which relates to freedom of the people to control their commerce, trade: stable monetary and fiscal policies and performance; Energy security which also is safety of natural resources, oil, gas, water and mineral resources; Environmental security; securing the nation and people from adverse environmental effects: fire, floods, erosion, deforestation, climate change, noise, pollution; Cyber security, which is safety of computers, information systems, data processing, infrastructures away from harmful interferences and Human/Physical security, which is safety of persons from hunger (food security), unemployment, disease, repression, water scarcity, and their property and facilities.”
He said that the Police strength in FCT is 16,400 which Abuja is projected to be 4.026,000 this year, translating to Police -Civilian ratio of one policeman to 245 persons.
He harped on citizens involvement in policing and security business in the nation’s capital as the Police is contained by several issues ranging from funding, corruption, poor perceptions and lack of trust from the members of the public.
“Effort towards combating crime and criminality in the FCT and its environment will yield more positive results if all hands are on deck to promote public safety, security of lives and protection of public infrastructure in the Capital Territory,” Ojukwu stated.
The gathering emphasized that civilians can play a significant part in ensuring the safety of their communities by reporting suspicious activities, providing intelligence, and working closely with security agencies.
The event also featured a panel discussion where experts from various security agencies, and Non-governmental Organizations including the Helpline Social Support Initiative, CLEEN Foundation, Voice of the Girl Child and Vulnerable People Foundation, and Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, Journalists, shared their insights on the effectiveness of civilian collaboration in combating crime.
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, Olamide Oni,
Capoon – Sahara Deck, explained that the feast of Barracuda is a platform that allows members and friends to come together, share insights, and develop strategies that address pressing issues in the country.
“The decision to focus on “The Role of Civilian Collaboration in Enhancing Security Within the FCT & its Environs” for this year’s event underscores our commitment to fostering a safer and more secure environment for all.
In recent years, the security situation within the FCT has presented significant challenges, affecting our daily lives and the overall well-being of our communities. As we navigate these complexities, it is essential to recognize that security is not the sole responsibility of law enforcement agencies. Instead, it requires the active participation and collaboration of civilians, community leaders, private sector stakeholders, and government officials” he said.
