New Anambra Police Chief Vows Community Policing, Zero Extortion

Anambra State has a new police chief, Commissioner Nnanna Ama Oji, who has pledged to foster deeper community engagement and bolster public trust in the police force. During his first press briefing in Awka, Ama Oji stated his commitment to grassroots involvement, ensuring that security strategies directly address the needs of the state's residents.

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We want the people to be part owners of policing strategies and our main strategy is to get down to the grassroots.

"We want the people to be part owners of policing strategies and our main strategy is to get down to the grassroots," Ama Oji declared. He stressed a strict policy of "zero extortion," asserting that this would be rigorously implemented and sustained. The Commissioner believes that public confidence is essential for effective policing and aims to create an atmosphere of legitimacy where residents feel comfortable cooperating with law enforcement.

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We are going to operate on zero extortion and I am not joking about it.

Looking ahead, the Anambra State Police Command plans to integrate digital processes, intelligence gathering, and technology into its operations. Ama Oji outlined a strategy that includes strengthening intelligence-led and technology-driven policing, improving operational efficiency, and deepening proactive crime prevention. He also intends to reinforce community policing initiatives and enhance collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.

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We will create an atmosphere of legitimacy that will make the people to trust police because if there is no legitimacy in police operations, people won’t cooperate.

The new commissioner's objective is to make Anambra State safer and more peaceful. He acknowledged the industrious nature of the state's people and stated his commitment to creating an environment where their potential can flourish under law and order. Ama Oji assured residents that the command would uphold constitutional responsibilities with integrity, fairness, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.

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Our objective is clear, to make Anambra State safer, more secure and more peaceful for every resident and visitor.