The Lagos State Police Command has pledged to increase raids on blind spots in Obalende part of Lagos.
The command’s Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Tijani Fatai, disclosed this during a town hall meeting at the Police Officers’ Mess, Ikeja, as part of activities marking the 2025 National Police Day.
The meeting provided a platform for engagement between the police and key stakeholders in the state.
In attendance were members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), the Police Eminent Persons Forum, Community Development Committees (CDCs), religious leaders, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
Discussions focused on enhancing security within Lagos State, with participants raising various concerns and suggestions aimed at further improving policing efforts.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended the Lagos State Police Command for its proactive security measures, which have contributed to the relative peace and safety in the state.
They acknowledged officers’ efforts and pledged continued collaboration in the fight against crime.
The meeting also served as an opportunity to recognise the vital role of traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organisations in bridging the gap between law enforcement agencies and the public.
A stakeholder at the meeting raised an alarm on the activities of illicit drug sellers in Obalende, asking the police to intervene.
Responding, Fatai, who represented the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, said: “We always keep our eyes on Obalende. We have carried out a series of raids in Obalende, but the place is a large area, and after clearing an area, another camp springs up.
“Everybody wants to come to Lagos because they believe it is the safest place with an easier life, but we will continue to do what we have been doing.
“We are not going to relent as we will continue to raid them to ensure that drug addiction is contained. ”
On patrol vehicles, he said: “The state government has donated some vehicles, and the government also promised to give more to all the divisions.
“Police vehicles run 24 hours, but the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) have been saddled to maintain the vehicles. The community should assist the DPOs.
“I want to implore CDC chairmen to focus on the objectives of their creation by bringing governance to the grassroots.
“The CDAs and the CDCs are not doing enough; they should talk to their chairmen about what is lacking.
“We should be able to contribute to our communities.
“The Baales should have data on people living in their communities, which will help us secure the area.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains dedicated to fostering strong community relationships and working in partnership with all stakeholders to keep Lagos safe.”
In his remarks, the Baale, Kirikiri, Apapa, Chief Babalola Shabi advised the DPOs against allowing illegal gatherings.
According to him, the DPOs should be aware of any meeting in their jurisdiction to send an officer to the gathering.
“Often robbery and cultism are planned in illegal gatherings. The police should be present in gatherings. I warn Baales, who allows people to smoke illicit drugs into their palaces. I will gladly welcome them at the gate of Kirikiri Correctional Facility.”
On herders-farmers clash, he said: “There is an insider collaboration in any attack. The attacks could be because they are dragging farmlands, and the opponents invite herders to help them dislodge their rivals.”
