…Cross River state Governor Seeks Collaborative Efforts to Address Security Challenges
Biase – Cross River state Governor, Bassey Edet, has expressed his strong commitment to a comprehensive security framework in the state. The governor made these remarks through the State Security Adviser South, Navy Commander Patrick Odiong Rtd., during a meeting at the Legislative Hall of Biase Local Government Area. The purpose of the meeting was to sensitize and assess the security situation in Biase and find solutions to the various security challenges in the local government. The ultimate goal is to attract investors and investment to the area.
The governor emphasized the need for a partnership to promote development in Biase. He stated that the government alone cannot achieve this and sought collaboration for proper security, conflict resolution, conflict management, and crisis management. He stressed the importance of a strong partnership to achieve the desired security and, ultimately, development.
Speaking further on the situation, PrimeTimeVoice disclosed that Commander Odiong addressed various security concerns, including drug abuse, armed robbery, kidnapping, and communal clashes, which have increased in Biase. He highlighted the chronic abuse of drugs, which has negatively impacted the youth in the area.
Also, present at the meeting was Lieutenant Commander Anikemu Johnbull Oki, Assistant Director Intelligence, representing Major General M. I. Obot (Rtd), Zonal Coordinator of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, South South Zone. He discussed the need to address violent crimes associated with the presence of small arms and light weapons, which can be easily carried and used for criminal activities. He stressed the importance of mobilizing support from the community, including family heads, village heads, clan heads, and the paramount ruler to curb the use of these weapons.
DPO of Biase, SP Kingsley Isong, and the representative of the Commissioner of Police highlighted the influx and use of small arms in local communities. They emphasized the need for intelligence sharing and encouraged communities not to harbor criminals. They also discussed the efforts by the police to increase surveillance and patrols along the highway, as well as the importance of intelligence gathering from the community.
CSC Bisong James of the NSCDC explained their role in tackling insecurity and gathering intelligence. He emphasized the importance of information sharing and pledged the NSCDC’s commitment to creating a crime-free society.
NDLEA representative, Kabiru Abdulahi, stated that all crimes often have links to drug abuse, particularly the abuse of hard drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and others. He called on the community to be vigilant against drug-related offenses.
The FRSC representative, EE Eni, discussed the issues surrounding road traffic accidents, including human factors such as family problems and drug abuse. They have been involved in public awareness campaigns to reduce accidents on the roads.
The Immigration Services, represented by VE Orok, discussed their work in Biase, including checking and monitoring foreigners working in the region. They emphasized the importance of cross-referencing documents and cooperating with communities and other stakeholders to ensure security.
The meeting concluded with a moment of prayer and a peace offering in Biase, led by the Paramount Ruler, HRM Onun Apostle Nicholas Odum (JP), the Onun I of Biase.
