The Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory, Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, has urged Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, and his Iru Ekun Security Network to strengthen cooperation with security agencies and notify the police before carrying out security-related activities.

Sanusi gave the advice during a meeting in Abuja with the network’s FCT coordinator, Segun Olufadeju, popularly known as Aluwaye, and members of his team.

The meeting was aimed at strengthening cooperation between the police and the community-based security organisation in tackling crime and promoting public safety.

According to a report by Vanguard, Sanusi emphasised that collaboration among security agencies and local security initiatives was essential to effective community policing and crime prevention.

Police insist on coordination before operations
Sanusi urged the network to maintain effective working relationships with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services and other relevant security agencies.

He also stressed the need for the organisation to notify relevant authorities, particularly divisional police officers in areas where it operates, before undertaking security activities requiring operational intervention.

The commissioner said coordination would help improve crime prevention and detection while ensuring that community-based security initiatives complemented the work of established security institutions.

Igboho pledges continued cooperation
Igboho said his organisation was committed to working with conventional security agencies to address kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities.

In a statement issued by his media office, he expressed appreciation for the support he said the network had received from security officials and pledged continued cooperation.

He also acknowledged the roles of Defence Minister Christopher Musa, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu and DSS Director-General Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi.

These acknowledgements reflect the organisation’s stated position and do not independently establish the scope of any formal operational arrangement.

Accountability remains important
The meeting highlights the importance of clear communication between community security organisations and government agencies.

Community-based groups may help provide local intelligence and identify security threats. However, their activities must comply with applicable laws and respect the authority of established security institutions.

Effective coordination can improve intelligence sharing, reduce operational misunderstandings and help protect residents’ rights.

The FCT Police Command’s message places cooperation and prior notification at the centre of the relationship between the police and Iru Ekun Security Network.