Officers of the Nigerian Police Force, in Imo State Command have been urged to engage in effort that would restore and sustain a healthy and mutual relationship with the entire citizens of the state.

The call was made at a one-day symposium on Mental Health organized by districts of Rotary Club International in Owerri for Police personnel, held at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday.

The workshop had in attendance top police chiefs led by the state Commissioner, CP Ahmed Muhammed Barde and other personnel drawn from all the divisions in the state as well as Rotary club members.

Speaking on Improving Police-Civilian Relationship, Rev. Fr. Ray Nzereogu stated that to enhance public acceptability and corporation, “Police must be seen as always standing for the people and once this understanding is achieved, the work of the police becomes easier.”

He further said, “the police authorities must start a thorough sensitization campaign on the role of the police. They must begin to create a better understanding of who the police is and their role in our communities. A serious image rebuilding effort must be commenced.

“To further enhance police/public relationships, room must be created to allow contributions and inputs from the community, volunteers and other stakeholders. The synergy must be such that can provide mutual support.”

Also, Rtn. Dr. Nneka Ewenike, Chief Executive Officer and Lead Consultant, Nettie Consulting Limited spoke on the importance of peace building as a veritable means of achieving cordial relationships between the police and the public.

She urged the officers to be chief advocates of peace and to always adopt peaceful approach in their dealings with lawful members of the public, stressing that such would help to achieve a better and healthy police-public relationship.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Muhammed Barde, represented by the DCP Ukachi Opara, in-charge of Administration and Finance appreciated Rotary Club for the initiative and reiterated the commitment of the command to continually enhance the welfare and general well-being of officers and men of the command.

He also charged the participants to utilise the knowledge availed by the workshop to improve their service delivery, stressing that the command would continue to partner with external bodies towards ensuring a healthy police-public relationship.

Earlier in his address, District Governor Nominee, Rotary International District 9142, Rtn. Kaycee Anyanwu disclosed that the essence of the symposium among other things, was to encourage the officers to give priority attention to their mental health to enable them delivery effectively on their duties.