As part of his proactive leadership efforts, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, paid a familiarization visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Abeokuta on January 30, 2025. The visit, which took place at the Iwe Iroyin Secretariat, Oke Ilewo, Abeokuta, provided an opportunity for the CP to engage with journalists on critical security issues affecting Ogun State.
During the interactive session, CP Ogunlowo responded to pressing questions from journalists, addressing concerns on various security issues. One of the major concerns raised was the brutal murder of Mr. Oyekanmi Taiwo, the Director of Finance in the Accounts Department, who was shot by unknown assailants on November 29, 2023.
CP Ogunlowo assured journalists that a thorough investigation is ongoing, and the police are committed to unraveling the mystery surrounding the murder using available evidence. He emphasized that despite not being in office when the incident occurred, there is no vacuum in policing.
The CP also addressed concerns over clashes between farmers, villagers, and herders, highlighting the revival of stakeholders’ meetings across all police divisions. He emphasized that continuous engagement with communities and interest groups will help mitigate conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence through dialogue.
Journalists expressed concerns about the resurgence of kidnappings in Ogun State, seeking to know the strategies in place to combat the menace. In response, CP Ogunlowo urged citizens to be more proactive in providing credible intelligence about suspicious activities in their communities.
He detailed ongoing security measures, including the deployment of a Quick Intervention Squad to patrol flashpoints, highways, bridges, and other high-risk areas. Additionally, sustained aggressive raids by Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) are being conducted to disrupt criminal activities before they escalate.
CP Ogunlowo also strongly condemned the rise in ritual killings, urging parents to take responsibility for their children’s actions. He decried the involvement of young individuals in crime for financial gain, warning that those caught will face the full weight of the law.
The Ogun NUJ expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s visit, pledging to support and collaborate with the police through extensive media coverage. The CP reiterated his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the State.
CP Ogunlowo urged the media to help sensitize the public on crime prevention and the importance of volunteering timely information to the police. The session ended on a high note, with journalists and police leadership reaffirming their shared commitment to security and responsible reporting for the benefit of the people of Ogun State.
The visit demonstrates CP Ogunlowo’s proactive approach to addressing security concerns and fostering collaboration with stakeholders, including the media and the public.
