ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – A group of traditionalists in Ogun State under the aegis of “Isese Kingdom Of Truth Association Of Nigeria” have sought the support and cooperation of the Nigerian Police Force, Ogun State Command in joining hands with them in crime prevention and control.
Chairman Of the Association and Oba Isese Of Ogun State, Ifarotimi Adifagbola Balogun made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the State’s Commissioner of Police, CP. Abiodun Alamutu, at Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, recently.
Adifagbola said that it was imperative to collaborate with police in order to fight crimes to a standstill in the state, noting that the rave of the ritual killings, cultism and other social vices had become worrisome.
He said the visit was to seek synergy with the Nigerian Police to curb the menace of social vices in the state and also the ritual killings that were bent on tarnishing the image of traditionalists in the state.
“In fact, our visit here today, is to seek collaboration with the police in tackling unscrupulous elements among the traditionalists, so as not to be seeing us as ritual killers, and also tackling crimes, such cultism and other social vices in our dear state,” Adifagbola said.
Responding, the CP. Alamutu appreciated the Association for the move, especially for their commitment to fight criminality in the state, saying that the visit became necessary in recognition of the position and contributions of ttraditionalists towards maintaining peace in their immediate environment as fathers in their domains.
“Indeed, the kind of impression we are getting is that some ritual killings has ascribed to the traditionalists in the state. But, we know from the experience that it was just handful of them have the criminal tendencies, so, with this collaboration, they can now assist us to nip such criminal elements in the bud.
“We recognize the traditionalists invaluable role in fostering a secure and harmonious environment for our people. As law enforcement officers, we recognize the need to work hand in hand with you to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.” CP. Alamutu said
He also urged Nigerians, especially the Ogun state indigenes to live in peace, respect religious beliefs of one another, and continue to pray to God to grant the nation peace and stability.