…Stresses the Importance of a Symbiotic Relationship Between the Police and the Press.

Since assuming office, Commissioner of Police (CP) Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, has recorded a series of successful security breakthroughs in Ogun State. In continuation of his proactive leadership, he paid a familiarization visit on January 30, 2025, to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Abeokuta, popularly known as Iwe Iroyin, the cradle of journalism in Ogun State.

The Chairman of Ogun NUJ, Comrade Wale Olarenwaju, alongside his deputy and other notable veteran journalists, both serving and retired, warmly received the Commissioner and his entourage at the Iwe Iroyin Secretariat, Oke Ilewo, Abeokuta.

Engagement with the Press: Addressing Key Security Concerns

During the interactive session, CP Ogunlowo responded to pressing questions from journalists on critical security issues in Ogun State.

1. Investigation into the Murder of Mr. Oyekanmi Taiwo

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, while in possession of an unspecified amount of money.

In response, CP Ogunlowo assured journalists that there is no vacuum in policing. Despite not being in office when the incident occurred, he affirmed that a thorough investigation is ongoing, and the police are committed to unravelling the mystery surrounding the murder using available evidence.

2. Farmer-Herder Clashes

Addressing concerns over clashes between farmers, villagers, and herders, the CP highlighted 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.

3. Rising Incidents of Kidnapping

Journalists expressed concerns about the resurgence of kidnappings in Ogun State and sought to know the strategies in place to combat the menace.

In response, the CP urged citizens to be more proactive in providing credible intelligence about suspicious activities in their communities. He detailed ongoing security measures, including:

• Deployment of a Quick Intervention Squad to patrol flashpoints, highways, bridges, and other high-risk areas.

• Sustained aggressive raids by Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to disrupt criminal activities before they escalate.

4. Ritual Killings and Youth Criminality

CP Ogunlowo strongly condemned the rise in ritual killings and urged 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.

Strengthening Police-Media Collaboration

The Ogun NUJ expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s visit, pledging to support and collaborate with the police through extensive media coverage. The CP, in turn, reiterated his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the State, while urging 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.

CSP Omolola Odutola, anipr

Police Public Relations Officer

Ogun State Police Command

Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.