The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has expressed concern over the non-functional status of the Security Trust Fund in the state.
Olufemi made this statement when he received members of the CLEEN Foundation at the police headquarters in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Tuesday evening.
He said, “I have reviewed the CLEEN Foundation’s charter of demands, and as far as I am concerned, there is no functional Security Trust Fund in the state.
“What exists is merely an office building; it is not operational, and there is nothing to demonstrate the presence of a functional Security Trust Fund in the state.”
Regarding state security, CP Olufemi stressed that Delta State remains one of the safest states in Nigeria.
“I can confirm that Delta has consistently been ranked among the safest states in Nigeria due to the diligence and commitment of officers, combined with the active involvement of communities in providing timely intelligence,” he added.
He expressed satisfaction with the current security situation while highlighting ongoing efforts by law enforcement and cooperation from local communities.
Olufemi reiterated that the state’s peaceful environment has contributed to growth in commerce and tourism, crucial for attracting investment compared to other states.
While assuring the public that the police are working around the clock to ensure swift justice, the police commissioner underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the public and security agencies to maintain a peaceful environment.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police, as this cooperation has proven vital in preventing crime.
However, he noted some challenges faced by police officers in certain areas, particularly with law enforcement due to non-compliance by some citizens.
He also called on the CLEEN Foundation to review and enhance its role in supporting the police force across the country.
Earlier in his address, Mr. Chucks Okpunor, Delta State Coordinator of the CLEEN Foundation Observatory Group, in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation, said that the visit aimed to ensure effective law and order in the country.
He called for improvements in transparency and accountability in the enforcement and implementation of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, ACJA 2015, the National Security Strategy 2019, and other related human rights protection laws.
Okpunor noted that the group has engaged with the police, the correctional services, and the state Ministry of Justice to advocate for reforms in the criminal justice system in Delta.
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