By ODEYA OGBETUO
The immediate past chairman of Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, Dr. Michael Tidi Esq. has called on Nigerians to be more committed to policing and security of lives and property by assisting the security agencies for a peaceful and a secured society.
Dr. Tidi made this call as the chief host and chairman of the public presentation and launching of two books on security and police professionalism at Wellington Hotel, Effurun, during the weekend.
He said the two books: Police Operational Strategy and Tactical Leadership for Enhanced Professionalism and Economic Impact and Policing and the Peril of Duty: Understanding the Causes of Careless Death Among Police Officers written by ACP Anietie Akpan Eyoh, Commandant MOPOL Training College, Osun-State and Associate Professor Maria Chinecherem Uzonwanne of the Department of Economics, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State as well written on the present security challenges with strategic focus, apt and timely, considering the terrific terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and insurgencies that is currently prevalent in the country.
Dr. Tidi said that the two books will serve as a handbook for effective policing, information on security operation and strategy as well as security issues in Nigeria.
He categorically stated that policing and security is not only the duty of the security agencies alone, but everyone should be conscious and committed to the security and policing, and be alert by assisting and giving necessary information to security agencies.
“I like to identify with publications that will promote peace, security and economic well-being of our people. The intellectual depth and the relevance of the books to the transformation of society are very important. Buy and read them and make use of the contents and contribute to the process of protection of lives and property. Nigeria will be a better place for all if we are involved in the process of nation’s building by contributing our quota.”
The book reviewers, Profession Uju Ezenekwe and Professor Mary Edema said that the two volumes are comprehensive books for policing and professionalism in the 21st Century and that a leader must be decisive, committed and focus on his duty and role by applying modern technology to get positive results.
“Leaders should apply strategy, technology as well as synergy combined to make a safer society. Community policy remains an important aspect of policing, because it has to do with the communities in the State. It serves as an essential aspect of policing and security.”
The authors stated that the book targets police officers as well as law enforcement administrators, policy makers, researchers and security personnel, adding that it is intended for anyone interested in the improvement of police safety standards as well as those working in a creative environment where law enforcement personnel can perform their duties without unnecessary risk to their lives.
They defined policing as a fundamental institution in any society playing a crucial role in maintaining law and order, as well protecting lives and property and ensuring the enforcement of legal statutes.
They listed most of the duties and roles the police play in their services such as routine patrol, emergency response, special operations, intelligence- gathering and information sharing, armed confrontations, response to traffic – related accidents among others.
They noted that modern police force operates within the framework of national constitutions and legal systems, ensuring that their actions align with the principles of justice, human rights and democratic governance, adding that law enforcement agencies are expected to act as impartial enforcers of the law by applying legal provisions without bias or favouritism.
According to them, “The concept of policing has undergone significant transformations evolving from informal community-led security arrangements to highly structured law enforcement agencies with specialized units.”
