CHRAN PRESS RELEASE
CSO LAUDS AKWA IBOM COMMISSIONER OF POLICE
The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has lauded the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, and members of his team for ensuring the security of life and properties in the Akwa Ibom State since assumption of duty.
The international human rights group made the commendation on Monday, 24th November, 2025, in a high-level Stakeholders Security Meeting at the Akwa Ibom State Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan-Abia to review the security situation in the State and strengthen collaborative efforts in maintaining peace and stability across all communities in the State.
Speaking through its Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, who led members of the Center to attend the meeting, CHRAN noted the tireless efforts of the Commissioner of Police in tackling crime in the State.
The CHRAN also commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for providing adequate assistance and support to the Police and other security agencies in the State which have facilitated the effective policing of the State and led to the reduction of crime during the current administration in the State.
The civil society group condemned in strong terms the use of social media to spread fake news in Akwa Ibom and other States of the federation, enabling the inimical activities of terrorists, bandits and other non-state actors.
The CHRAN called for patriotism, solidarity and support for the Police and other security agencies in the country in the war against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in the country. The CHRAN called for regular stakeholders security meetings to enhance citizens’ participation in community policing in the State.
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed that Akwa Ibom State remains peaceful and secure, noting that the Command working closely with sister security agencies, continues to maintain robust patrols, effective surveillance, and intelligence-driven operations throughout the State.
The CP also expressed concern over the recent spread of fake news and unverified security alerts on the social media, which has the potential to cause panic and undermine public confidence. He categorically stated that such messages are false and misleading and must, therefore, be disregarded. He urged the public to rely solely on verified information from credible security sources.
The Commissioner further emphasized the need for communities to take ownership of security by exposing criminal elements, including those involved in armed robbery, cultism, vandalism, drug peddling, and other unlawful activities. He noted that no community can be truly safe if some residents shield or protect criminals.
CP Azare called on traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, market associations and civil society organizations to continue to work closely with the Police and other agencies to sustain the peaceful environment that the State enjoys.
The CP assures the public that the Command will continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property and maintain law and order in every part of the State. Residents were called upon to remain vigilant and to report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Station or any other security agency.
The meeting was chaired by the Commissioner of Police, CP Azare, and had in attendance representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs), traditional rulers, religious leaders, market unions, transport unions, students unions, Nigeria Labour Congress, community representatives, and members of the Press.
In their separate responses, some critical stakeholders, such as the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, Bishop Chris Nyong; the Paramount Ruler of Uyo, HRM, Edidem Sylvanus Okon; the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Sunny James, among others, appreciated the Commissioner of Police and heads of other security agencies for securing Akwa Ibom State and making it peaceful and safe.
While offering key interventions, observations, and commitment aimed at strengthening security across the State, the stakeholders unanimously pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Police Command, improve information sharing, and support all initiatives aimed at sustaining peace and security in Akwa Ibom State.
Signed
Comrade (Barr.) Christopher Ekpo
(Secretary)
Dated: 24th November, 2025.
