Edo charges vigilante network to enhance security of life, property

The Edo State Government has charged operatives of the State Security Vigilante Network to ensure protection of life and property, eschew violence and discharge their duties within the ambit of the laws.

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr. Philip Shaibu, gave the charge at the graduation of ‘Batch A’ trainees of the network, comprising 574 operatives drawn from the six local councils of Edo North, who completed a two-week intensive training session at the Police Training School, Ogida, Benin City.

The training focused on weapon handling, intelligence gathering, human rights protection and other modules, geared to better equip the operatives in the discharge of their duties.

The Deputy Governor said: “You have not been trained to go and terrorise your community but to complement the efforts of the state security council. Your duty is also to provide information and monitor all government properties. You are to work in line with the procedures, rules and regulations laid down for you.

He said: “You must also work in harmony with your community leaders and village heads, defend the land and shun all negativity. Remember none of you is above the law. The police cannot be everywhere but be in strategic areas watching over life and property and can be effective only to the extent that all of us can give necessary information to them.”

Shaibu added: “This is the reason for the establishment of the Edo State Security Vigilante Network. We have started recording successes. We are not there yet until we have a state where everybody can move freely without hitches; sleep with their eyes closed and where private investment flourishes.

“Edo State is currently one of the most secured states in Nigeria. We have a governor that has been able to coordinate all of us to the extent that we now take security as a priority. Without security, no investment can come.”

On his part, the Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Dankwara, who was represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Operations, Dantawaye Miller, also urged the graduates to synergise with the Police Divisions in their areas.

He said: “I urge you to work closely with your Divisional Police Offices. When there are arrests, contact your DPOs for guidance on what to do so that you don’t break the law. Also, avoid being used for land grabbing activities.”

The Commandant, Police Training School, ACP Bamidele Awoniyi, urged the graduating operatives to carry everyone in their localities along so as to excel in their endeavours as expected.

The Coordinator of the ESN, Col. Oshoriamhe Omomia (Rtd) expressed optimism that the group will improve security at community level.