By O'Seun Ogunsakin
The newly deployed Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ekiti State Command, CC Sotiyo Igbalawole Emmanuel, has called for closer collaboration with journalists in the state to strengthen security and ensure more effective protection of lives and property.
Igbalawole made the call in Ado Ekiti while addressing the September Congress of the Ekiti State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), where he described journalists as “freedom fighters” and commended their contributions to society, particularly in promoting human rights and holding institutions accountable.
The Commandant urged journalists to serve as the “eyes and ears” of the NSCDC by promptly providing credible information on developments requiring security intervention.
He, however, stressed the need for objectivity, accuracy and professionalism in security-related reporting.
According to him, the NSCDC and the media have complementary responsibilities in maintaining peace and security, noting that effective security operations require timely information from members of the public.
“I cannot be everywhere at the same time. That is why we need your partnership. When you see something that requires security attention, say something,” he appealed.
Igbalawole said the command would prioritise prompt response to distress calls and strengthen engagement with Community Development Associations (CDAs) across the state to improve grassroots intelligence gathering and security.
He advocated a partnership built around the principle of “seeing something and saying something,” stressing that early and credible information could enable security agencies to prevent threats and respond more effectively to emerging security challenges.
Speaking on the recent flooding in parts of Ekiti, the Commandant said the NSCDC was among the first security agencies to visit affected communities and families, adding that the corps remained committed to emergency response and the protection of lives and property.
He assured the people of Ekiti of his commitment to delivering effective service and urged journalists to work closely with the command in promoting peace, safety and security across the state.
Responding, the Ekiti NUJ Chairman, Comrade Kayode Babatuyi, assured the Commandant that journalists in the state were willing to maintain a cordial working relationship with the NSCDC and support initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property.
He said the media would continue to discharge its responsibility of informing the public while promoting peace, responsible citizenship and security awareness across the state.
0 Comments