The Edo State Government has urged members of the Edo State Security Vigilante Network to protect people and property, abstain from violence, and carry out their duties in accordance with the law.
The graduation of Batch A trainees of the network, consisting of 574 operatives drawn from the six local government areas of Edo North, who completed a two-week intensive training session, held at the Police Training School, Ogida, Benin City, was addressed by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu.
The training emphasized on handling weapons, gathering intelligence, protecting human rights, and other modules designed to better prepare the operatives in carrying out their responsibilities.
“You have not been trained to go out and terrify your town, but to support the operations of the state security council,” the deputy governor remarked. It is also your responsibility to inform the public and keep an eye on all government facilities. You must follow the policies, guidelines, and directives that have been set for you.
“You must also safeguard the land, avoid all negativity, and cooperate with your village heads and local officials. Keep in mind that none of you are above the law. We have a comprehensive security network in place. The police cannot be everywhere, therefore they must be in key locations to protect people and property. However, they can only be effective to the extent that we can all provide them with the information they need.
He added, “The establishment of the Edo State Security Vigilante Network was motivated by this, We’ve begun keeping track of our victories. Until we reach a situation where everyone may go around without any restrictions, sleep soundly, and where private investment is encouraged, we are not there yet.
“Edo State is currently one of Nigeria’s safest states. We have a governor who has been able to bring us all together to the point where we prioritize security. There can be no investment without security.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammad Dankwara, The Edo State Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Operations, Dantawaye Miller, also encouraged the graduates to make sure they coordinate their operations with the Police Divisions in their area of influence.
We have benefited from our synergy with the security network, and I want to let you know that we plan to increase it through this training. Work closely with your Divisional Police Offices, I implore you. When there are arrests, get in touch with your DPOs for advice on what to do to comply with the law. Additionally, avoid being a tool for land grabbing.
ACP Bamidele Awoniyi, the Commandant of the Police Training School, asked the graduating agents to support everyone in their communities in order to succeed as expected in their endeavors.
Col. Oshoriamhe Omomia (Rtd), the coordinator of the ESN, also voiced optimism and urged the graduates to uphold their end of the bargain in protecting their communities.